Marking/printing applicator and/or cleaning elements

ABSTRACT

A cleaning device, in particular a toothbrush, with a handle body consisting of a handle part, a head part and a neck part connecting the handle part to the head part. The head part has applied to it one or more applicator and/or cleaning elements, which form a bristle area which has at least one outer side and/or an upper side. At least one of the applicator and/or cleaning elements on the at least one outer side and/or an upper side of the bristle area and/or the handle body is/are marked or printed with a marking/color medium.

The subject matter of the present invention is the marking or printingof applicator and/or cleaning elements, i.e. not only of conventionalbristles, and of further elements on the cleaning device. Themarking/printing serves in particular for communication with the user.With the marking/printing, for example, instructions for use and otherinstructions can be given, attention can be drawn to uses, advantages orbenefits, logos can be applied and advertising areas can be created. Theinvention relates in particular to a correspondingly printed, or markedcleaning device (for example a brush, a toothbrush, a flosser or atongue cleaner etc.), to a corresponding method for marking or printingsuch a cleaning device and also to an arrangement for carrying out themethod. In this case, a cleaning device may be understood as alsomeaning in particular an applicator (for example mascara, nail varnishor lipgloss).

EP 0 366 100 A1 describes a toothbrush with a handle and a bristlecarrier and also with a device which indicates the end of the usefullifetime of the toothbrush. The device is formed by at least part of thetoothbrush consisting of a material component which graduallydecomposes, dissolves or changes color. In this case, at least part ofthe toothbrush is produced from or provided with a material componentwhich gradually breaks down, dissolves or changes color during use. Thisprocess may be caused by air, water or light. A large number of plasticsare known for this purpose, such as for example polymers with acid oramino groups, for example a polymer with methacrylic acid as acopolymer. Such plastics are soluble in water or in slightly acidic oralkaline liquids. For a change of color, non-lightfast dyes andnon-lightfast colored plastics are suitable. This may on the one handinvolve the transitional region between the bristle carrier and thehandle being at least partially produced from a plastic which is made todecompose or dissolve by water. Since this transitional region oftencomes into contact with water during teeth cleaning, the materialcomponent in this case dissolves, so that after a period of time thebristle carrier is no longer stable, but only soft, and consequentlyunsuitably connected to the handle for cleaning. Another possibility isto provide the bristle carrier and/or the handle with an indicator areawhich is covered with a material component which decomposes ordissolves. After the possible time for which the toothbrush can be usedhas elapsed, this material component, for example the plastic mentioned,has dissolved, so that the indicator area becomes visible andeffectively indicates that the time of use has elapsed. However, thissolution does not concern the bristles or applicator and/or cleaningelements as such, but only the neck region of a toothbrush.

WO 00/01275 discloses a method for producing brushware having plasticbristles, which are continuously extruded as monofilaments, cut to thedesired length and fastened individually or as a set of bristlescombined in groups as tufts to a bristle carrier, such as is the casefor instance with toothbrushes. After extrusion, the monofilament or thebristles produced from it is/are provided with at least onesubstantially linear demarcation or marking line, recognizable as amarking of a contrasting color on the set of bristles of the finishedbrushware, at a distance representative of the state of use from the endof the bristles on the side that is used. In this way, the user of thebrushware is constantly provided with visual information about thecurrent state of use and the degree of current wear independently of theactual wear situation during the use of the brushware. The monofilamentserving for producing the bristles is in this case extruded from aplastic filled with pigments, which react to laser beams by changingcolor, the demarcation being created by the action of laser beams on themonofilament or the bristles produced from it. When the marking isfinally reached due to the progressive wearing away of the end of thebristles on the side that is used, the brush or toothbrush is no longerusable.

DE 103 14 521 A1 discloses the printing of brush bodies by means ofinkjet printers.

The object of the present invention is therefore to provide a solutionwith which various applicator and/or cleaning elements, possiblyconsisting of different material components, for different cleaningdevices and cleaning devices themselves can be visually modified in sucha way that more diverse communication/interaction with a user can beachieved in a low-cost and technically simple way.

This object is achieved according to the invention by a cleaning device,in particular a toothbrush, with a handle body consisting of a handlepart, a head part and a neck part connecting the handle part to the headpart, wherein the head part has applied to it one or more applicatorand/or cleaning elements, which form a bristle area which has at leastone outer side and/or an upper side, wherein at least one of theapplicator and/or cleaning elements on the at least one outer sideand/or an upper side of the bristle area and/or the handle body is/aremarked or printed with a marking/color medium; and by a method formarking/printing a cleaning device, in particular a toothbrush, with ahandle body consisting of a handle part, a head part and a neck partconnecting the handle part to the head part, wherein the head part hasapplied to it one or more applicator and/or cleaning elements, whichform a bristle area which has at least one outer side and/or an upperside, with the steps of: (a) feeding the cleaning device with the handlebody and also the applicator and/or cleaning elements (or alternatively:a bristle puck) to a marking/printing means (for example to a printheador laser) by means of a transporting device, (a bristle puck isunderstood as meaning bristles in their untreated form combined in apuck (semifinished products), such as for instance are fed to abristle-providing machine—in the bristle puck, they are arranged lyingclose together side-by-side); (b) marking/printing at least one of theapplicator and/or cleaning elements on the at least one outer sideand/or an upper side of the bristle area (or alternatively: a bristlepuck) and/or the handle body with a marking/color medium; and also by anarrangement for marking/printing a bristle area and/or a handle body ofa cleaning device having a marking/printing means (for example a laseror printhead) with a marking/printing area within which amarking/printing of the bristle area with a marking/color medium can beperformed and also with a mounting device by means of which the cleaningdevice is held and positioned with respect to the marking/printing meansand which is preferably arranged on a transporting device.

In a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the applicatorand/or cleaning elements marked or printed with the marking/color mediumare formed from a thermoplastic elastomer, in particular a thermoplasticpolyurethane elastomer (TPE-U), a thermoplastic polyamide elastomer(TPE-A), a thermoplastic polyolefin elastomer (TPE-O), or athermoplastic polyester elastomer (TPE-E), a polyamide (PA), apolybutylene terephthalate (PBT) and/or a silicone. This selection ofmaterial components has shown particularly good results with regard tothe marking/printing and the cleaning effect, with at the same timegentle treatment of the gums and oral tissue.

In a further preferred embodiment of the present invention, theapplicator and/or cleaning elements marked or printed with themarking/color medium have a number of colors. In this way, variousfunctionalities or intensities of the individual applicator and cleaningelements can be visually indicated to the user.

In a further preferred embodiment of the present invention, theapplicator and/or cleaning elements and/or the handle body is/are markedor printed with an indicator or an indicator color. Preferably, theseare indicators that show reactions during use. To be mentioned here asexamples are so-called indicators of use, in the case of which themarking/printing wears away during use due to friction or mechanicalabrasion, and thus for example indicates the state of the applicatorand/or cleaning elements (for example in the case of an appliedindicator color: when there is no longer any color there, that meansthat the brush should be changed). Mechanical abrasion may also be usedfor example for a corresponding indication on the handle body of thecleaning device.

The activation of the indicators or indicator colors may in this casetake place for example on applicator and/or cleaning elements when theyare used with water, or by washing off (for example, if used daily,after 3 months the marking/color medium has gone or become completelyfaded); use with water or washing away then corresponds to a consumptionprocess. Furthermore, it is also possible that, after first activation,an independent consumption process proceeds of its own accord, i.e. fromthat point in time the indicator becomes depleted of its own accord andautomatically (i.e. without any action by a third-party).

The activation of an indicator or an indicator color implemented bymarking/printing may also be jointly controlled by various processes,for example by a combination of use by friction or mechanical abrasionand use with water or washing away.

The intensity or lifetime of the indicator or the indicator color iscontrolled for example by way of the layer thickness of the applicationor the percentage admixture of the additional substance in therespective medium (a greater proportion corresponds to a longer orgreater effect).

A further indicator that may be applied by the marking/printing isso-called bacteria measurement. In this case, when applied to theapplicator and/or cleaning elements or to the neck part/head part of thecleaning device, the state in the mouth is detected and checked forbacterial content.

In an analogous way, mouth odor can be detected and indicated by colorby means of marking/printing with an indicator or an indicator colorprovided for this purpose. Finally, thermochromic markingmedia/thermochromic colors, which reversibly change the color they showwhen there is a change of temperature, may also be applied to theapplicator and cleaning elements or to the handle body of the cleaningdevice. In this way, for instance the water temperature and/or the timeof use (time it has been in the mouth) can be established; for example,the applicator and/or cleaning elements, or a sub-zone thereof, are blueand, when they are washed off with hot water, they correspondinglybecome red. Furthermore, in this way a changing image can also becreated, for example by a tree with leaves; warm water makes the leaveschange color, so that only the trunk of the tree or the branches arevisible.

In a further preferred embodiment of the present invention, theapplicator and/or cleaning elements and/or the handle body is/are markedor printed with a graphic, which produces a visual effect. Graphics mayserve in particular as a visual way of emphasizing the properties of aproduct or represent anticipated properties of a product, such as forexample by continuing the pattern of the brush handle; depictions whichemphasize or suggest a device function (for example visualization of thepatterns of motion of electric toothbrushes, for example vibration bywaves/rings in the case of sonic toothbrushes or animation of therotation for oscillating toothbrushes). In particular in the case ofelectrical devices, it is of great interest for the user to see theanticipated motion of the applicator and/or cleaning elements withouthaving to start the device (for example in the sales packaging).

Volume- or contour-emphasizing color elements are also conceivable; forexample lines, etc. which make it easier to see or emphasize the contourmay be applied in the 3D profile, or in the topography of the bristlearea or else of the handle body. As a result, the particular advantagesof the 3D profile or the topography of the bristle area can behighlighted to the user.

Moreover, for instance the color gradient of the marking may be made tocorrespond to the degree of hardness of the tufts of bristles in thebristle area. That is to say that tufts with bristles of a greaterdiameter are given a different marking than tufts with bristles of asmaller diameter. The same considerations also apply of course to thematerial hardnesses used for applicator and/or cleaning elements thatare produced by means of injection molding (for example applicatorand/or cleaning elements of different soft components with differentShore hardnesses may also be marked with different colors).

The intended use of the brush may likewise be indicated. This may beindicated in a descriptive manner of communication by means of text orby a corresponding image (for example “sensitive” for example by afeather, “whitening” for example by a polar bear, “interdental” forexample by an illustrated thread of dental floss or by a depicted spacebetween teeth).

In addition, optical illusions or visual effects may also be used,produced for instance by motion (that is to say in particular in thecase of oscillating brushes or sonic brushes).

Finally, patterns which only become visible or are changed by the motionof the electric toothbrush may also be applied (for example on theoutside of the bristle area of an oscillating toothbrush or else on topand/or at the front of the bristle area of a swiveling toothbrush or asonic toothbrush and/or on the brush body). That is to say that, due tothe motion, operation of the electrical device has the effect that themarking takes on an alternative meaning or an alternative appearance ascompared with when it is not in operation. For example, an inscriptionor a pattern or a graphic that would not be directly identifiablewithout motion appears on the applicator and/or cleaning elements duringoperation.

The following also come into consideration for example as graphics inthe form of textures or patterns that make the product stand out:crests, children's motifs, icons/pictograms or snowy mountains motif(i.e. using for instance white bristles/filaments to which bluemountains are applied).

Furthermore, lenticular images (images which, depending on the viewingangle, take on a different form and thereby suggest a three-dimensionaland/or movable effect) are also conceivable.

Furthermore, geometrical graphics or geometrical forms may also beapplied. By means of graphics, products can also be visually enhancedand/or changed. In order to set a brush apart, an individualmarking/printing may be applied (for example Mom, Dad, a name such asfor example Philip, Adrian, etc.) or else a standardized individuality(for example male, female, star sign, Western or Easterncharacteristics/symbols or indications of age such as junior, kid,adult, 0 to 6 years, etc.).

In order to produce, intensify and/or variably create the desired effectof the marking/printing mentioned in this document, the form of theapplicator and/or cleaning elements, for example the bristles and/ortufts of bristles, and/or the form of the handle body may beadvantageously used. That is to say that the marking/printing within anapplicator and/or cleaning element may preferably be adapted such thatthe marking/printing at least partially follows the contour of theapplicator and/or cleaning elements, and consequently, if desired,leaves behind a different marking/printing, depending on the viewingangle. The same is also possible with the topography/form of the handlebody.

In a further preferred embodiment of the present invention, themarking/color medium is applied to the applicator and/or cleaningelements and/or the handle body with a layer thickness of 0.001 mm to0.5 mm, preferably of 0.001 mm to 0.2 mm. As a result, a specific“minimum durability” can be ensured with respect to abrasion and/orwashing away.

If the laser method is used for marking (i.e. not laser printing), layerthicknesses cannot be used for definition. The marking may be a changeof color in the respective material component (for example of theapplicator and/or cleaning elements and/or of the handle body), whichdoes not bring about any difference in height. A removal of material mayhowever take place, this preferably being between 0.01 mm and 0.5 mm.

Furthermore, the laser treatment may make the respective materialcomponent foam, which is accompanied by a change in color of the surfaceand also a certain haptic effect. The structure which in this waybecomes feelable has a height of 0.01 mm to 0.5 mm.

Furthermore, the laser can achieve the effect of a so-calledcarbonization, which is accompanied by a changing of the respectivematerial component, which can be perceived with the eye as darkdiscoloration.

A further printing method is stamping. This involves a form or a contourthat is applied to a die being pressed against the surface to be printedof the handle body and/or against the applicator and/or cleaningelements, the medium to be applied being discharged between the surfaceto be printed and the die.

In the case of hot stamping, the die is heated during use and generallyonly a single-color imprint is achieved. In the case of decal stamping,a full-area, multicolored imprint is achieved. The imprint is appliedsolely by pressure; the pressure is once again achieved as describedabove with a die.

In a further preferred embodiment of the present invention, the packingdensity of the applicator and/or cleaning elements, in particular thebristles, is from 12 pieces per mm² to 25 pieces per mm², preferablyfrom 16 pieces per mm² to 20 pieces per mm². In this way, themarking/printing can be further optimized. A higher packing density ofthe applicator and/or cleaning elements allows a higher resolution ofthe marking, in particular in the case of an end-face marking of theapplicator and/or cleaning elements.

In a further preferred embodiment of the present invention, the numberof marking dots/printing dots or the printing resolution or theresolution of the marking is greater than the number of markedapplicator and/or cleaning elements. Also preferably, the printingresolution is from 20 dpi to 3000 dpi, preferably from 150 dpi to 1500dpi. These measures serve for particularly good visibility orreadability of the marking or the printing. As a result, the smallbristle surface areas (for example at the free end of the bristles onthe upper side of the bristle area) are marked much better or more. Thatis to say that, due to the higher resolution, the surface area isprovided with more marking dots/printing dots, which serves for “better”marking.

In a further preferred embodiment of the present invention, in the caseof a (for example round) bristle area with at least one outer side andan upper side, at least one applicator and cleaning element on the outerside of the bristle area and at least one cleaning and applicatorelement on the upper side of the bristle area are provided with amarking/printing. By this form of marking/printing, for instanceindividual tufts of bristles (or larger surface areas over a number oftufts of bristles) can be marked or printed around a corner, i.e. overthe upper edge. As a result, a continuous marking/printing continuingfrom the outer side to the upper side of at least individual applicatorand cleaning elements forms. Consequently, visual effects of interestcan be produced and also varying exposure with respect to use. It islikely that the wearing away of the marking is greater on the upper sidethan on the outer side.

In a further preferred embodiment of the present invention, in the caseof an elongate (for example rectangular, kite-shaped, elliptical, etc.)bristle area with at least a front side, a longitudinal side and anupper side, at least one applicator and/or cleaning element on the frontside of the bristle area, at least one applicator and/or cleaningelement on the longitudinal side of the bristle area and at least onecleaning and applicator element on the upper side of the bristle areaare marked/printed. Once again, individual tufts of bristles (or largersurface areas over a number of tufts of bristles) can be marked/printedaround a corner, i.e. over their upper, front and/or longitudinal/outeredge. The bristle area can therefore be marked/printed as desired in theX, Y and Z directions (contiguously and non-contiguously). It goeswithout saying that combinations just of the front and upper side,longitudinal and upper side or front and longitudinal side “around acorner” are also conceivable, once again contiguously ornon-contiguously.

The handle body may likewise be printed on a number of sides and overedges/around corners. By analogy with the printing of the applicator andcleaning elements, transitions on the handle body may be correspondinglycreated. Furthermore, transitions/edges/corners between applicator andcleaning elements and the handle body may also be created in acorrespondingly continuous or contiguous manner. As a result, it is alsopossible to print the bodies almost up to or up to the edge.

In a preferred embodiment of the method according to the invention, themarking/printing means is a printhead, in particular an inkjetprinthead. In the inkjet method, particularly good print quality can beachieved in a low-cost way.

The use of methods of digital printing such as the inkjet method (alsoknown as inkjet printing) or laser printing (not to be confused with thelasering mentioned later) is possible.

A further preferred embodiment of the method according to the inventioncomprises a laser as the marking/printing means.

In a further preferred embodiment of the method according to theinvention, the marking/printing means (for example the printhead) isarranged movably and/or rotationally movably along at least one axis,preferably two axes, still more preferably three axes, with respect tothe cleaning device. As a result, the aforementioned variable marking ofthe bristle area or the handle body on the upper, longitudinal/outer,front and/or also the rear side can be achieved. Furthermore, it isconsequently possible to follow the contour of cleaning and applicatorelements, for example of bristles and/or tufts of bristles, or else thetopography of the handle body. It goes without saying that themarking/printing means may also be fixed and the product is moved withthe corresponding axes with respect to the marking/printing means.

In a further preferred embodiment of the method according to theinvention, the transporting device has mounting means, with which thebrush can be swiveled and/or rotated with respect to themarking/printing means. This measure also serves for the variablemarking/printing of the bristle area, in particular a 360°marking/printing of the outer side or outer surface area of a bristlearea of mascara and interdental brushes (i.e. around the brush) or a360° printing of handle bodies (i.e. around the product).

In a further preferred embodiment of the method according to theinvention, in the case of a (for example round or elliptical) bristlearea with at least one outer side and an upper side, at least oneapplicator and/or cleaning element on the outer side of the bristle areaand at least one cleaning and/or applicator element on the upper side ofthe bristle area are marked/printed. By this form of marking/printing,for instance individual tufts of bristles or larger surface areas can bemarked/printed over a number of tufts of bristles on the outer side(following the respective form of the brush head) and/or around acorner, i.e. over the upper edge. With this type of marking/printing, itis possible to create a wraparound text or a wraparound graphic, whichthe user only sees as a whole if he correspondingly turns the product.As a result, the user can be encouraged to get to know the productbetter, with all of its possibilities and advantages, by viewing it frommore than one side. It goes without saying that this is also possible onthe handle body itself.

In a further preferred embodiment of the method according to theinvention, in the case of a (preferably rectangular) bristle area withat least a front side, a longitudinal side and an upper side, at leastone applicator and/or cleaning element on the front side of the bristlearea, at least one applicator and/or cleaning element on thelongitudinal side of the bristle area and at least one cleaning and/orapplicator element on the upper side of the bristle area areprinted/marked. Once again, individual tufts of bristles (or largersurface areas over a number of tufts of bristles) can be printed/markedaround a corner, i.e. over their upper, front and/or longitudinal/outeredge. The bristle area can therefore be marked/printed as desired in theX, Y and Z directions (contiguously and non-contiguously).

In a further preferred embodiment of the method according to theinvention, the marking/printing means (for example the printhead) has aheight of 5 mm to 100 mm, preferably of 10 to 50 mm. This heightindicates the width of the marking/printing. Also preferably, theprinthead has 5 to 500 nozzles, preferably 10 to 300 nozzles. As aresult, the aforementioned resolution is ensured.

The marking/printing per product may be performed by themarking/printing means (for example the printhead) in a number ofoperations. Furthermore, the marking/printing may also take place bymeans of a number of marking/printing means in parallel or one after theother. Furthermore, different printing methods may be used one after theother or in parallel.

In a further preferred embodiment of the method according to theinvention, the marking/printing speed is from 2 m/min to 100 m/min,preferably from 5 m/min to 60 m/min. As a result, marking/printing thatis efficient and of a high quality can be produced.

In a preferred embodiment of the arrangement according to the invention,the marking/printing means is arranged movably and/or rotationallymovably along at least one axis (for example X, Y or Z), preferably twoaxes (for example two axes from X, Y and Z), still more preferably threeaxes (for example X, Y, Z), with respect to the cleaning device. As aresult, the aforementioned variable marking/printing of the bristle areaon the upper, longitudinal/outer, front and/or also the rear side can beachieved.

In a variant, in this case the marking/printing means is arrangedrigidly or fixedly and the mounting means with the cleaning device moveslaterally on the marking/printing means, i.e. along the Z axis. In thisway, an outer or longitudinal side of the bristle area can be marked.The marking/printing means may however similarly be arranged rigidly orfixedly above the bristle area, in order to mark/print the upper side ofthe bristle area. This variant is suitable in particular also for themarking/printing of bristle pucks (i.e. bristles in their untreated formcombined in a puck or semifinished products such as for instance are fedto a bristle-providing machine).

In a further variant, the marking/printing means is arranged on themounting device movably with respect to the cleaning device. Themarking/printing means in this case moves laterally past the bristlearea of the brush or the handle body, i.e. along the Z axis. In thisway, once again an outer or longitudinal side of the bristle area or thehandle body can be marked/printed. The marking/printing means mayhowever similarly be arranged movably above the bristle area or thehandle body, in order to mark/print the upper side of the bristle areaor the handle body.

In a still further variant, preferably both the marking/printing meansis arranged movably with respect to the cleaning device and the cleaningdevice is arranged movably with respect to the marking/printing means.The marking/printing means can in this case move laterally past thebristle area of the brush or the handle body (i.e. along the Z axis),transversely in relation to the bristle area of the cleaning device(i.e. along the X axis) and/or it can be brought into a position abovethe bristle area or the handle body or onto the other side of thebristle area or the handle body in a dome-like rotating motion withrespect to the Z axis (i.e. a motion in the X and Y planes). At the sametime, the mounting means with the cleaning device can be moved laterallypast the marking/printing means, i.e. along the Z axis. In this way, theupper side and both outer or longitudinal sides of the bristle area andalso the handle body, that is to say the head, neck and handle parts, ofthe brush can be marked/printed at a high cycle rate (there is howeveralso the possibility of arranging the mounting means rigidly).

The marking/printing means can in addition also be brought into aposition in front of or behind the bristle area or onto the other sideof the bristle area in a dome-like rotating motion with respect to the Zaxis (i.e. a motion in the X and Y planes), so that the front or rearside and both outer or longitudinal sides of the bristle area and alsopossibly the front and side edges of the cleaning device can bemarked/printed. Also conceivable in addition is a corresponding rotatingmotion with respect to the Y axis (i.e. a motion in the X and Z planesfor marking/printing the upper, front and rear sides).

In yet a further variant, both the marking/printing means is arrangedmovably with respect to the cleaning device and the cleaning device onthe mounting device is movable with respect to the marking/printingmeans. The marking/printing means in this case moves laterally past thebristle area or the handle body of the cleaning device, i.e. along the Zaxis. The cleaning device (here preferably a mascara or interdentalbrush) is arranged rotationally movably with respect to themarking/printing means, i.e. rotation about the Z axis. The brush is inthis case swiveled and/or rotated by the mounting means with respect tothe marking/printing means. In this way, in particular for instance theouter side of the bristle area of mascara and interdental brushes can bemarked/printed (360° printing/marking). The marking/printing means mayhowever similarly be arranged movably above the bristle area, in orderto mark/print the outer side or outer surface area of the bristle area.

It is also particularly advantageous to mark with the samemarking/printing means further elements of the product apart fromapplicator and/or cleaning elements (for example the handle bodyconsisting of the handle part, neck part and head part).

Within the scope of the present invention, it is particularly preferredfor marking or printing to be performed with ink, preferably with waxyink. The ink may be water-soluble or water-insoluble. The ink,preferably the waxy ink, is warmed up or melted and in the non-warmedstate is viscous to solid. It often can only be worked in the liquidstate. On contact with the surface to be marked/printed, the inksolidifies very quickly. Changes of color are always troublesome,because the ink is carried to the printhead over long distances (intubes (a line)).

The drying time of the waxy ink is preferably less than 2 seconds, morepreferably less than 1.5 seconds. After drying, the ink can be touched.

Waxy ink has the advantage that it adheres to various materialcomponents and, as a result, applicator and/or cleaning elements andalso handle bodies consisting of different material components can bemarked.

For example, food wax 5012 from Markem Imaje (a Dover Company) may beused.

In the case of a marking by the laser method, no actual application ofmaterial takes place, and consequently no marking medium is requiredeither. The writing is provided by changes of color, etc. according tothe description above.

Further Preferred Applications

The present invention relates primarily to brush products for personalhygiene. With regard to oral hygiene, on the one hand manualtoothbrushes, for instance as reusable toothbrushes (for examplereplaceable-head toothbrushes) or as disposable toothbrushes or assingle-tuft brushes (brushes with just one large tuft of bristles) comeinto consideration.

Similarly coming into consideration are electric toothbrushes withvarious types of detachable brushes and different forms of motion (forexample oscillating, swiveling, translatory, vibrating or combinationsor overlays thereof). Electric toothbrushes may in this case have amechanical transmission with 1:1 step-down or step-up, an oscillatingarmature motor or else an electric motor. The electric toothbrushes canbe operated at different speeds and have for instance disposablebatteries or rechargeable batteries (for example nickel-metal hydridebatteries or lithium-ion batteries) as an energy store. The charging mayin this case take place inductively or directly by a plug connection.

The toothbrushes that are the subject matter of the present applicationoften consist of a head part with applicator and/or cleaning elements, aneck part and also a handle part. All of the sub-elements may consist ofat least one hard component and/or at least one or more soft components.The head part may also have a recess for a corresponding head plate,which is occupied by applicator and/or cleaning elements. The applicatorand/or cleaning elements may for example comprise conventional, extrudedbristles (pointed and cylindrical) and/or rubber-elastic massagingand/or cleaning elements. Furthermore, for example injection-moldedbristles may also be used or combined.

A further preferred application area is that of interdental cleaners.These may be formed as interdental cleaners with twisted-in bristles,and/or with injection-molded cleaning elements or else as interdentalcleaners with dental floss and possibly toothpicks (also referred to asflossers or flossing implements).

Also considered to be cleaning devices for the purposes of the presentinvention are tongue cleaners, and also tongue cleaner attachments ontoothbrushes. In the case of tongue cleaners, corresponding applicatorand/or cleaning elements may be marked/printed. These are often onlyrelatively small structures such as nubs, ribs, studs or surfacestructurings. These may consist of hard and/or soft components.

It is clear that, on a product, different applicator and/or cleaningelements may be marked/printed. The different applicator and/or cleaningelements may be located at a different position on the product, performa different purpose and/or have different properties.

In the case of a toothbrush, for example, on the rear side the tonguecleaner and on the front side the bristles may be marked/printed. Thesame or different marking/printing means or marking/printing methods maybe used for this.

Furthermore, dental floss may also be correspondingly marked/printed. Inparticular, dental floss that is fixed in a plastic part (such as theflossers/flossing implements described above).

In the area of cosmetics, preferably mascara brushes, nail varnishbrushes, face brushes, applicators, make-up or lipgloss brushes aremarked/printed.

Other application areas are shaving brushes and wet razors (hairremoval), highlighter brushes (hair coloring) or hair brushes.

For the household sector, dish-washing brushes, toilet brushes, clothesbrushes, floor mops, brooms and also painting brushes and rollers shouldbe mentioned.

Preferred Material Components

Hard Components

Preferably used as hard components are: styrene polymers such as styreneacrylonitrile (SAN), polystyrene (PS), acrylonitrile butadiene styrene(ABS), styrene methylmethacrylate (SMMA) or styrene butadiene (SB);polyolefins such as polypropylene (PP) or polyethylene (PE), for examplealso in the form of high-density polyethylene (HDPE) or low-densitypolyethylene (LDPE); polyesters such as polyethylene terephthalate (PET)in the form of acid-modified polyethylene terephthalate (PETA) orglycol-modified polyethylene terephthalate (PETG), polybutyleneterephthalate (PBT), acid-modified polycyclohexylenedimethyleneterephthalate (PCT-A) or glycol-modified polycyclohexylenedimethyleneterephthalate (PCT-G); cellulose derivatives such as cellulose acetate(CA), cellulose acetobutyrate (CAB), cellulose propionate (CP),cellulose acetate phthalate (CAP) or cellulose butyrate (CB); polyamides(PA) such as PA 6.6, PA 6.10 or PA 6.12; polymethylmethacrylate (PMMA);polycarbonate (PC); polyoxymethylene (POM); polyvinylchloride (PVC);polyurethane (PUR); polyamide (PA); polyethylene (PE) can be used bothas a hard component and as a soft component; polyurethane (PU) can beused both as a hard component and as a soft component; preferably usedas a hard component is polypropylene (PP) with a modulus of elasticitythat preferably lies between 1000 and 2400 N/mm², particularlypreferably between 1300 and 1800 N/mm².

The hard component is preferably used for or in stable,structure-bearing elements, for example in the handle body for thehandle, the neck part and/or head part. If a number of hard componentsare used, for example in the two- or multi-component injection-moldingmethod, or material components are connected by ultrasonic welding, thehard components used preferably form a material bond with one another.

Alternatively, a number of hard components that do not enter into amaterial bond in two- or multi-component injection molding may be used.In the case of these pairings, a form fit is provided, for example inthe form of undercuts and/or apertures and/or partial and/or completeovermoldings (etc.). The second molded hard component then shrinks ontothe first molded hard component as it cools down, and thus forms ashrink connection. Examples of possible hard component pairings that donot enter into a material bond are polypropylene and polyester,polypropylene and styrene acrylonitrile, etc.

Soft Components

Soft components preferably form a material bond with the hard componentsby means of overmolding in the two- or multi-component injection moldingmethod. Preferably used as soft components are: thermoplastic styreneelastomers (TPE-S), such as for example a styrene ethylene butylenestyrene copolymer (SEBS) or styrene butadiene styrene copolymer (SBS);but also thermoplastic polyurethane elastomers (TPE-U); thermoplasticpolyamide elastomers (TPE-A); thermoplastic polyolefin elastomers(TPE-O); thermoplastic polyester elastomers (TPE-E) and silicones.Polyethylene (PE) can be used both as a hard component and as a softcomponent. Polyurethane (PU) can likewise be used both as a hardcomponent and as a soft component. The preferred thermoplasticelastomers (TPE) have a Shore A hardness of <90 preferably <50,particularly preferably <30.

Preferred Material Components for Injection-Molded Bristles

As a difference from conventional, extruded bristles, injection-moldedbristles are produced by means of injection molding. Preferred materialcomponents for the injection-molded bristles are thermoplasticpolyurethane elastomers (TPE-U). Preferred modifications from thestandard TPE-U may comprise: better flow properties and also more rapidsolidification or crystallization (i.e. the molecular chains alreadybond at high temperatures).

Alternative material components comprise polyethylene (PE), for examplein the form of low-density polyethylene (LDPE), or linear low-densitypolyethylene (LLDPE) as well as thermoplastic polyester elastomers(TPE-E) and thermoplastic polyamide elastomers (TPE-A).

The material components for injection-molded bristles are preferablythermoplastic elastomers and have a Shore D hardness of 0 to 100,preferably of 30 to 80. For injection-molded bristles, special forms ofsoft components are used, generally having higher Shore hardnesses thanother soft components from which soft elastic cleaning/massagingelements or handle zones or tongue cleaners are produced.

During the injection-molding process (two- or multi-component injectionmolding), material components for injection-molded bristles generally donot enter into a material bond with the other soft and/or hardcomponents used. Consequently, a form fit is provided for anyconnections to other hard or soft components, for example in the form ofundercuts and/or apertures and/or partial and/or completeovermoldings/wraparounds (etc.). The material component molded secondfor injection-molded bristles shrinks onto the first molded hard or softcomponent as it cools down, and thus forms a shrink connection.

Special Material Components

To be mentioned as special material components that are preferably usedare, in particular, bioplastics, i.e. plastics that are formed fromrenewable raw materials.

The raw materials for the bioplastics consist for example at leastpartially of maize, hemp, sugar, castor oil, palm oil, potatoes, wheat,sugarcane, rubber, wood and also the castor-oil plant or castor plant.Examples of possible base materials, obtained from the raw materials,are: cellulose, starch, lactic acid (PLA), glucose, chitin and chitosan.

The main groups of bioplastics comprise starch-based bioplastics,cellulose-based bioplastics, polyhydroxyalkanoates (for example PHB,polyhydroxy butyric acid), PLA (polylactic acid, for example Ecovio®) oraliphatic/aromatic copolyesters (for example Ecoflex® or Infinito®).Further preferred bioplastics comprise for example lignin-basedbioplastics. Water-soluble polymers also additionally come intoconsideration.

In the area of the handle body, a wood or grass may also be used as thematerial component.

The handle body may consist of or contain a hardwood, such as chestnut,oak, beech, linden, pear, apple, walnut, poplar, birch, elm, ash oracacia. The handle body may consist of or contain a softwood, such asDouglas fir, spruce, larch, pine or fir. The handle body may consist ofor contain a pretreated or pre-worked wood, such as Kebony, thermo ashor steamed beech. The handle body is in particular made of a primarywood. The handle body may also be made of recycled wood. The handle bodymay furthermore consist of or contain bamboo, licorice or cedarwood.Licorice and cedarwood are distinguished by their particular effect ortheir particular smell and/or taste.

Preferred Applicator and/or Cleaning Elements

Within the scope of the present invention, the applicator and/orcleaning elements may comprise the following configurations:

Conventional, Extruded Bristles

Conventional, extruded bristles may generally be made up of hard and/orsoft components. Conventional, extruded bristles (pointed orcylindrical) are preferably produced from polyamide (PA) or polyester(PBT).

Production is preferably performed by means of extrusion (one materialcomponent) or by means of co-extrusion (more than one materialcomponent). By contrast with injection-molded bristles or rubber-elasticmassaging and cleaning elements that are produced by means of injectionmolding, conventional bristles are extruded, cut, worked (for examplerounded or pointed) and inserted on the brush handle by means of adaptedmethods (anchor punching, AFT, IMT, etc.). The working of theconventional bristles is generally performed before themarking/printing.

The longitudinal form of the conventional, extruded bristles ispreferably cylindrical or pointed (for example chemically pointed,especially in the case of bristles made of polyester (PBT)), wavy ortwisted or helical.

In cross section, the conventional, extruded bristles are for instancecircular, triangular, rectangular, square, elliptical, polygonal,trapezoidal, parallelogram-shaped or rhombic.

For oral hygiene, preferred dimensions comprise a diameter of 0.075 mmto 0.25 mm and a surface area of 0.002 mm² to 0.2 mm².

For cosmetics, preferred dimensions comprise a diameter of 0.025 mm to0.2 mm and a surface area of 0.001 mm² to 0.15 mm².

The surface is in each case smooth or textured. The conventional,extruded bristles are also preferably combined into tufts.

Tongue Cleaners

Preferred tongue cleaners, which are for example integrated intoothbrushes, are often made up of a hard component and/or a softcomponent or else a combination of a hard component and a softcomponent. Tongue cleaners may furthermore be made up of a materialcomponent for injection-molded bristles, which once again may becombined with a hard and/or soft component. Tongue cleaners are oftenproduced by injection molding.

Cleaning/Massaging Elements

Cleaning/massaging elements are preferably made up of a soft component.Their production is preferably performed by the injection-moldingmethod.

Injection-Molded Bristles

Injection-molded bristles consist of one of the aforementioned materialcomponents for injection-molded bristles and are likewise preferablyproduced by injection molding.

Preferred Production Methods

Injection Molding

The process or the production method for toothbrushes in particularcomprises first the injection molding of a main body, which oftencomprises in any case a handle i.e. a handle body or a handle part, aneck part and a head part (with or without a recess for a head plate).An injection-molding tool or a machine serves for this purpose. In thecase of two- or multi-component injection molding, the materialcomponents may be connected by means of a material or substance bond. Ifthe material components are not bonded, a form fit is usually aimed for,for instance in the form of a shrink connection. Depending on theconfiguration, mobility is also possible, for example, by means of ajoint (formed by the non-bonding material components).

Both hot-runner and cold-runner methods or else co-injection methods areused for this.

The position of the gating point is in this case preferably chosen suchthat no injuries to the oral tissue or the gums can be caused during useby the remains of material that are often left behind there (which ifnecessary however can be overmolded by a further material component).

Bristle-Providing Methods

Coming into consideration for providing the head part with bristles inthe present case are the anchor punching method, the anchorless methodand also the twisting method, which are in each case briefly explainedbelow.

In the case of the anchor punching method, first the main body isinjection-molded with blind holes and subsequently the bristles arefolded and fastened in the head part by means of anchors. The anchorpunching is performed by means of a punching device or a punching tooland corresponding format sets. A method that can be used analogously isloop punching.

In the case of the anchorless methods, the bristles are not folded, andtherefore here the bristles are only half the length they are incomparison with the bristles in the case of the anchor punching method.

According to a first method variant, in this case first the tufts ofbristles are individually separated. Subsequently, the bristle ends arefused and after that are directly overmolded with a plastics component.In the case of this method, a number of tufts of bristles can be broughttogether. Known methods comprise so-called In Mold Tufting (IMT), inwhich the overmolding also includes the injection molding of the mainbody, and also so-called Integrated Anchorless Production, in whichfirst bristles are overmolded with (head) plates and subsequently theplates are overmolded with the main body or the head part.

According to a second method variant, first the (head) plates areinjection-molded with through-holes. Subsequently, the bristles areprovided and led through the (head) plate. Subsequently, the bristlesare fused on the rear side and thus also fused to the (head) plate. The(head) plate provided with bristles is then ultrasonically welded to theseparately produced main body. Known methods include the V-Air methodand Zahoransky Z. Vamp 1 method, in which it is not possible for tuftsto be brought together. Further known methods are the Boucherie AnchorFree Tufting (AFT) method and the Zahoransky Z. Vamp 3 method, in whichit is possible for tufts to be brought together.

According to a third method variant, first a main body isinjection-molded with through-holes for bristles in the head part.Subsequently, the bristles are provided and inserted through thethrough-holes in the head part. After that, the bristles are fused onthe rear side. Finally, the bristle melt is overmolded with a softcomponent. Known methods include the Boucherie AMR method, in which itis not possible for tufts to be brought together. A further known methodis the Boucherie AMR+ method, in which it is possible for tufts to bebrought together.

According to a fourth method variant, first a main body isinjection-molded with blind holes for the bristles in the head part.Subsequently, the bristles are provided as tufts. After that, thebristles are fused as tufts. Then, the handle body is warmed to theglass transition temperature in the head region. After that, thebristles are inserted into blind holes and anchored in the head part bymeans of pressure (i.e. the size of the blind holes is reduced or themain body is deformed in order to anchor the bristles). A method knownto this extent is the Boucherie PTt method.

In the case of the twisting-in method, which is used for example forinterdental or mascara brushes, the filaments are fed from a roll,wherein a number of filament strands are wound up on a roll. For loadingthe machine, a number of rolls are in each case pretensioned, since eachfilament in the brush corresponds to a filament strand. The filamentsare appropriately spread out, in order that they have the width in whichthey are inserted into the brush. The filaments are also drawn forwardsuch that they subsequently protrude for the next step, i.e. that thewire can be passed over them. The wire is fed to the machine from aroll, i.e. is unwound, and introduced into the process. The wire is inthis case cut to a length which is greater than the unwound length ofthe twisted-in brush, since the final cutting to length only takes placeafter the twisting-in. The wire is then bent into a U, in order that theopen side can subsequently be pushed over the filaments (threading-in ofthe bristles). The wire is in this case held against the curve or thebase of the U. Subsequently, the wire is pushed over the filaments, onthe outside. After that, the open wire end is clamped, in order that thefilaments are held between the pieces of wire. The filaments are thencut to a length that is greater than the final length in the brush, inorder that the brush can be correctly cut later (when the filaments havebeen twisted in). Finally, the wire is rotated, so that the filamentsare clamped between the wire, i.e. are fixed. In this case, a spiral offilaments forms. Once the filaments are fixed on the wire, they are cutto the correct length (i.e. profiled). Once the brush part has beencompleted, the excess wire is also cut off.

After correspondingly providing the bristles, if necessary thetoothbrushes can also be decorated and subsequently packed.

Preferred Forms of Marking/Function

The function of the marking/printing according to the invention isusually a form of communication and can be divided into the headingsmarking, user support, product functionality and use forretailers/producers or combinations thereof.

In the case of marking, the following aspects are especially at theforefront:

Product designation/brand/advertising text and the like: this includeslogos and advertising, such as for instance logos of a company,association or event. Brands or marks may for example also be appliedvertically to an applicator and/or cleaning element (for example a tuftof bristles). Furthermore, recycling information may be applied (forexample a recycling Möbius strip or recycling icons). Themarking/printing according to the invention brings these contents forthe first time to a place where marking/printing is not yet usual: tothe applicator and cleaning elements.

Production codes: these may include identification/fabrication numbers,which serve for example as protection from theft. In this case, eachbrush has its own code, which is of interest in particular for expensivebrushes. The production codes may however also serve forre-traceability, as is the case for instance with lot codes.

Sales code/product information: this includes for instance the EAN code.It may be that this can be read through the packaging, in order that abenefit is generated. In the case of a neutral packaging, the code isapplied to the applicator and/or cleaning elements.

The QR code serves primarily as a link to the producer, i.e. forinstance to the producer's website, for example for reordering theproduct (address of the online shop), information concerning recyclingof the product, information on the life-cycle or the origin or else forthe exact specifications of the product (raw materials used, productionprocesses, energy consumption, instructions for disassembly,instructions for disposal, etc.). The website may also for exampledescribe the exact procedure for recycling, for example if some partshave to be detached and recycled separately (instructions fordisassembly), or else indicate the various ways of recycling thedifferent parts. The QR code may preferably also be combined with a wearindicator, i.e. the QR code for (re-)ordering only becomes readableafter wear has taken place. Alternatively, the QR code of the productcan be read when it is used for the first time, and in this way areminder that the lifetime of the product is coming to an end isactivated, for example by means of an associated app or the producer'swebsite. In the case of a toothbrush, the recommended lifetime is forexample 3 months; in the case of interdental products, a lifetime of 1day to 1 week is recommended.

The QR code may also serve as a link to an advisory website, providinginformation for instance on use (i.e. how the product is usedcorrectly).

Apart from being applied by means of printing, QR codes may also bestamped. Stamping of a QR code requires special stamping dies, whichrequires extremely fine working. For creating a die for a QR code thatcan be read later, methods such as etching by means of acid or elsemilling by means of a stylus are used. The difference in height to becreated in the stamping die lies in the range between 0.02 mm and 0.10mm. This difference in height is also transferred to the handle partduring the stamping operation. With differences in height in this range,the structures can be created sufficiently finely, so that also QR codeswith a proposed side length of 5-15 mm, preferably 8-12 mm, particularlypreferably 10 mm, can ultimately be created in a readable manner.

The QR code is preferably applied to the bristle-carrying front side inthe rear half of the handle part. Alternatively, it may also be appliedto the rear side of the handle part.

Of course, other machine-readable codes can also be applied according tothe invention.

Furthermore, product properties may also be applied, such as for examplethe number of filament ends. These are individually counted, for exampleby a camera, and the number subsequently applied (for example 4241). Itgoes without saying that a previously ascertained average value may alsobe used.

Also properties of the applicator and/or cleaning elements may beindicated by means of applied text and/or a pictogram or a graphic, suchas for example the bristle hardness (i.e. “soft”, “medium”, “hard”,etc.).

Furthermore, the contents or additives of the applicator and/or cleaningelements may also be described, such as for example charcoal, anantibacterial substance or bamboo, etc. Moreover, special properties ofthe applicator and/or cleaning elements may be described, such as forexample the form of the ends: rounded or pointed; the cross section:diamond cross section or wave cut; the longitudinal form: corrugated,etc.

In the case of electrical devices, furthermore, performance indicationsare applied, such as for example the number of oscillations(revolutions) or the speed. In this case, the image may be designed suchthat different speeds present different images (for example an electrictoothbrush in cleaning mode (1) with a first indication of number ofrevolutions and in cleaning mode (2) with another indication of numberof revolutions).

By means of graphics, products can also be visually enhanced and/orchanged. In order to set a cleaning device or a brush apart, anindividual marking/printing may be applied (for example Mom, Dad, a nameor years, etc.) or else a standardized individuality (for example male,female, star sign, Western or Eastern characteristics/symbols orindications of age such as junior, kid, adult, 0 to 6 years, etc.).

Graphics may also serve as a visual way of emphasizing the properties orthe effect of a product, such as for example by continuing the patternof the brush handle in the bristle area (or vice versa) and alsodepictions which emphasize or suggest a device function (for examplevisualization of vibration by waves/rings in the case of sonictoothbrushes or other electrical devices).

Volume- or contour-emphasizing color elements are also conceivable; forexample lines which make it easier to see the visualization of thecontour of the bristle area may be applied in the 3D profile of thebristle area. Moreover, for instance the color gradient may be made tocorrespond to the degree of hardness of the tufts of bristles in thebristle area. The intended use of the brush may also be indicatedcorrespondingly by an obvious graphic or pictogram (“sensitive” forexample by a feather, “whitening” for example by a polar bear,“interdental” for example by an illustrated thread of dental floss orillustrated spaces between teeth).

In addition, optical illusions or visual effects may also be used,produced for instance by motion (that is to say in particular in thecase of oscillating brushes or sonic brushes). Finally, patterns whichbecome visible or are changed by the motion of the electric toothbrushmay also be applied (for example on the outside of the bristle area ofan oscillating toothbrush or else on top and/or at the front of thebristle area of a swiveling toothbrush or a sonic toothbrush).

The following come into consideration for example as graphics in theform of textures or patterns: crests, children's motifs, comic figures,icons/pictograms or snowy mountains motifs (i.e. using for instancewhite bristles/filaments to which blue mountains are laterally applied).Furthermore, lenticular images are also conceivable. Furthermore,geometrical graphics or geometrical forms may also be applied.

Copy protection or a seal of authenticity may also be provided, forexample in the form of a scannable code, an individual code, or a codefor product registration.

In the case of user support, the following aspects are especially at theforefront:

Recommendation for use or effect or a suggestion of a suitableadditional product: in the case of “sensitive” applicator and/orcleaning elements, for example a suggestion of a “sensitive” toothpastemay be applied. Similarly, in the case of “whitening” applicator and/orcleaning elements, a suggestion of a “whitening” toothpaste may beapplied. The same applies to the “interdental” recommendation for use.

In the case of a face brush, for instance a suggestion of acorresponding cleaning gel may also be applied (for example byindicating the brand name and/or the product name).

It is also conceivable that the marking/printing indicates the amount,or the place provided for it, of the required toothpaste, gel, etc., forexample by means of a circle or a strip that is to be filled. This mayalso be emphasized by the contour or the profile of the applicatorand/or cleaning elements.

Furthermore, instructions for use or suggestions of use for the user maybe applied. In oral hygiene, this may for example comprise: handlingrecommendations with respect to sparing use of resources: for example“turn off water”, “dispose of properly”, a recommendation of thebrushing time, for example: “brush for 3 minutes”, hygienerecommendations, for example: “rinse before use” and/or “dry after use”,and/or “replace after three months”, etc. In the case of a multistagetreatment, the recommendation of the next stage of the treatment may berespectively applied (for example treatment 1-2-3-4). In oral hygiene,for instance the following instruction may be applied: 1) toothbrush, 2)dental floss and 3) mouthwash. As in the case of all markings, a textualdescription or a corresponding graphic instruction is conceivable.

Suggestion for Recycling or Disposal

If a product consists of different materials, the individual materialcomponents or their abbreviations may be indicated.

Furthermore, it may be indicated how and/or where the individualmaterial components can be separated from one another for disposal. As aguide, for example, it may be indicated where for example cutting needsto take place for making a separation between materials. For example, inthe case of toothbrushes made of wood with a plastic head, it may beindicated where the plastic head can be cut off. A line and/orcorresponding pictogram of the separating means (for example scissors,pliers, etc.) may be applied at the intended separating location.

Further user support is represented by seals for first-time use ornewness. It may be for example that these can be washed off; i.e.preferably when the product has been used for the first time, themarking/color medium goes away. This may for instance also comprise acovered image that is exposed.

Furthermore, it is possible to print on an indicator for applyingpressure. In a conceivable variant, a lenticular image in this casechanges with the flexibility of the brush handle (from Smiley to notSmiley). In another variant, there is a change of color if too muchpressure is applied (for example a change of color or discoloration tored). However, here the marking medium must be applied over a movablelocation at which the corresponding parameters can be detected orestablished, so that for example a change of color takes place.

The product functionality also comprises chemical reactions of themarking/printing (for example with ions), the discharge of activesubstances (substances are integrated in the marking/color medium)and/or the changing of physical properties of the product. For example,the surface structure of the applicator and/or cleaning elements may bechanged by the marking/printing (for example increase roughness, changefriction coefficient, etc.). It is also possible for differentroughnesses to be provided in the area of use (i.e. zones with/withoutmarking/printing. This may also be performed for example by admixingadditives in the marking/color medium (for example in the printer ink).In this way, for example, part of the handle body that is touched foruse may be provided with a print that improves the feel. Or in a similarway elements may be provided in Braille. Different surface structuresare provided not only on the handle body but also the applicator and/orcleaning elements. Tongue cleaners, injection-molded bristles orapplicator and/or cleaning elements of soft material or zones thereofmay be most particularly suitable for this.

Furthermore, the physical properties of the marked/printed medium or theapplicator and/or cleaning elements may be changed. Thus, for example, athick marking/printing (layer thickness) may be provided, in order thatthe properties of the base material at the corresponding location nolonger have an effect.

A benefit for retailers or producers may be that of productdifferentiation in the case of a product for a number of differentcustomers (i.e. the same products for different customers aredifferentiated by means of marking/printing). In this way for instancespecial editions can be created with little effort (for example seasonalmotifs or major events, such as the soccer World Cup or the OlympicGames).

It is also possible to produce very small batches. By means of digitalprocesses, the marking/printing can be quickly adapted for smallbatches. It is also possible to mark each product individually (batchsize 1).

Preferred Marked/Printed Media

The marked/printed medium preferably comprises semifinished products orraw materials, worked products and variants.

Extruded filaments come into consideration as semifinished products orraw materials (see under massaging and cleaning elements). Two- orthree-component filaments are also possible here. Charcoal (woodcharcoal), metal flakes, antibacterially acting additives and the likemay be contained in the filaments as additives.

Bristles clustered together in a bristle puck (puck tufts are not meanthere, but rather the semifinished product or the charge in which thebristles are brought to the bristle-providing machine) may also bemarked at their tips. They may be cylindrical or pointed filaments.These may be colored or marked on one side or on both sides. In thiscase, the marking/printing must of course take place in dependence onthe (re-)working, i.e. any grinding/cutting/profiling of the bristles orelse rounding or pointing (physical and/or chemical working) of thebristle ends must be taken into account. Generally, the working ofextruded bristles is performed before the marking. Alternatively, themarking/printing may take place before the working, but themarked/printed part of the bristles is no longer worked, or is notharmed by the working.

Dense packing of the applicator and/or cleaning elements, for examplebristles, has the effect that there is only superficial marking/printingat their ends. Less dense packing has the effect that there is alsomarking at depth, i.e. not just in the region of the ends of theapplicator and/or cleaning elements or the bristles. Thus, dependent onthe properties of the marking/color medium, the depth of themarking/printing results from the density ratio.

In this connection, the capillary action must also be checked. Itdepends on the marking/color medium used, i.e. for instance on the inkused or its viscosity. Viscous marking/color media, such as for examplea waxy ink, produce scarcely any or no capillary action, but also littlepenetration depth. For the length of the coloration in the longitudinaldirection of the bristles, see further below.

An optimum procedure for bristle processing including marking comprisesthe pre-rounding or pointing, the marking/printing and the subsequentinsertion of the bristles. Further subsequent working operations, suchas pointing, rounding, cutting and/or grinding, may also bring about aremoval of the marking/printing, and consequently a deliberate changingor weakening of the marking/printing in this region.

It is also possible of course for worked products to be marked/printed.The injection-molded cleaning elements comprise injection-moldedbristles and injection-molded, rubber-elastic cleaning elements (forexample in the form of lamellae, nubs or the like). In the case of tuftsof bristles, preferably the individual bristles are not marked/printed,but a tuft or a group of bristles. A tongue cleaner on the toothbrush,formed from a hard component and/or from a soft component, may also bemarked/printed.

Furthermore, elements that are degradable during use and/or elementsthat give off active substances during use may also be marked in thisway. For example, elements that are produced from water-solublepolymers. The dissolving of the element has the effect of course thatthe printing is then also removed/dissolved.

In addition, it is of course also possible within the scope of thepresent invention for a marking/printing of the brush body, the bristlemelt (in the case of brushes provided with bristles by an anchorlessmethod), the bristle-providing area (the surface area in which thebristle holes are made) and/or the bristle holes to be performed (forexample for covering unsightly geometries or a bristle melt in the caseof transparent brushes). This may be done separately or before thebristles are provided.

Also elements which are produced by means of additive manufacturing (forexample 3D printing), such as for instance applicator and/or cleaningelements, may be marked or printed. Furthermore, simple tongue cleaners,which do not have any further cleaning elements but just a scrapingedge, may be marked/printed; or else flocked elements, in the case ofwhich for instance the base element is provided with flocking in asubsequent working operation.

The printing or marking of flocked elements in the handle body or elseunder the cleaning and/or applicator elements of a cleaning device takesplace after they have been applied to the final product. The flockedelements may consist of hard and/or soft material. For example, cleaningdevices such as interdental cleaners, lipgloss applicators or handlebodies may be completely or partially flocked.

All of the printing/marking methods proposed in this document come intoconsideration for this. Contactless methods are preferred.

Flock fibers (“flock” for short) refers to conventional, extrudedbristles of small length (about 0.1 to 5 mm; preferably about 0.3-2 mm).In electrostatic flocking, millions of such short bristles in anelectric field are applied to an element coated with adhesive. In thiscase, the field lines ensure that the fibers align themselvessubstantially perpendicularly, and thus produce a uniform textilesurface. Depending on the fiber thickness and length, a velvety-soft tohard-abrasive surface can be created in accordance with the desiredfunction, appearance or feel.

Preferred Location of the Application

Form of the Marked/Printed Medium

The marked/printed medium preferably comprises individual tufts, anumber of tufts or large tufts (so-called puck tufts), as are producedin an anchorless manner by the AFT or PTt method, which have largemarked/printed surface areas. These surface areas may be planar, curved,fan-shaped, conical, wave-shaped or have some other non-planartopography.

In the case of marking/printing tufts that consist of a number of picks,logos can be marked/printed, and picks that consist of different typesof bristles (for example different colors, forms of end working (pointedor rounded), different diameters, different materials, etc., i.e.different types of bristles in a tuft) can be marked/printed.

A pick is understood as meaning an individually separating operation fora tuft of bristles in the bristle-providing machine. In a conventionalbrush or a brush produced by the anchor punching method, a pickcorresponds to a tuft of bristles. For example in anchorlessbristle-providing methods, such as Aft, IMT or PTt, it is at least tosome extent possible to produce a tuft of bristles (considered in thefinished product) from a number of picks.

A puck tuft is understood in the present case as meaning a largecontiguous tuft with a high bristle density in the bristle area and alsopreferably with a great number of bristles in the correspondingindividual tufts of a finished product, for example a toothbrush. Theindividual bristles lie close together with high density. The bristlesof the tuft are generally connected to one another by way of acontiguous carpet of melt or a bristle melt and the puck tuft isassembled from a number of picks during production.

In the case of a very large tuft, which for example has a carpetstructure, or a so-called puck tuft, it is possible to mark/print onlypart; for example, only bristles that stand up higher in the tuft aremarked.

Form of the Marking/Printing

The marking/printing may be performed laterally on the applicator and/orcleaning elements (i.e. on the lateral surface). It may be performedpartially or 360° around the applicator and/or cleaning elements. Forexample in the case of an oscillating, round or elliptical electrictoothbrush or a face brush, the marking/printing may thus be performedfor instance laterally around the bristle area.

The marking/printing may however also be performed (additionally oronly) on top of the applicator and/or cleaning elements, i.e. on thecontact surface, or on the end region of the applicator and/or cleaningelements on the side that is used.

Furthermore, a topography that is assumed by the ends of the applicatorand/or cleaning elements may also be marked/printed, i.e. a 3D form withan X component, a Y component and a Z component. This topography may beformed by the end regions on the side that is used and/or laterally bythe applicator and/or cleaning elements.

The marking/printing may also comprise different zones in the bristlearea; for example, in the middle a carpet structure, for example in theform of a puck tuft, and on the outside normal, isolated tufts ofbristles. It is also possible for different prints/printingmethods/marking methods to be used, such as for instance high-resolutionmarkings/prints in the dense part or deep markings/prints, penetratinginto the bristle area, in the less dense part. It is also possible touse a different printing method for the handle body and the applicatorand/or cleaning elements.

The resolution, the color, the surface structure and/or the compositionof the marking/printing can consequently vary according to the packingdensity of the bristles.

Criteria in which the marking/printing can change are the length, color,form, cross section, material and/or type of working of the end regionof the applicator and/or cleaning elements.

It is also possible for the bristle melt in the case of AFT brushes tobe marked/printed (for example in a neon color, so that the color shinesthrough the tips). In this way, for example, the rather unattractivebristle melt can at the same time be covered.

It is also possible for upwardly conical tufts of bristles (i.e. whichhave bristles that spread out in the upward direction in the manner of abunch of flowers) to be marked/printed. This is better for inscriptions,cf. below with respect to the spacings of the bristle ends or spacingsof the surface areas to be marked/printed. The upwardly conical tufts ofbristles form a more continuous surface area consisting of bristle ends.

The marking/printing may also be performed at an angle to thelongitudinal axis of the bristles, i.e. the marking leads laterally fromthe bristles toward the bristle tips.

This works particularly well in the case of paintbrushes, but is alsopossible in the case of the other brushes mentioned. It is possible forinstance for one or more tufts of bristles to be marked/printed around acorner as it were, i.e. over its/their upper, front and/or longitudinaledge.

A 360° marking/printing in the form of an image is also possible. Thus,for instance, a spiral form may be applied around a tuft or around atwisted-in brush etc. The marking/printing in this case goes over 360°;the beginning and the end of the marking lie together or at the sameangular degree (0°=360°).

Furthermore, a marking/printing over a number of tufts is possible. Inthis case, different types of applicator and/or cleaning element with amarking/printing can be combined with one another. Thus, for example, asimultaneous marking/printing over bristles and/or applicator and/orcleaning elements comprising a soft component and/or injection-moldedbristles is for instance possible.

In a further combination, applicator and/or cleaning elements comprisinga soft component, for example in the form of lamellae or nubs on theinside and tufts with conventional bristles on the outside, may beprovided on a brush head. In this case it is possible for both theapplicator and/or cleaning elements comprising conventional bristles andthose comprising a soft component to be marked/printed before theanchoring of the conventional bristles. This is thus possible in thecase of various bristle-providing methods, for example in the case ofanchor punching methods and also in the case of PTt methods.

Electrical devices constitute a special case: here, the configurationmay be such that the actual communication/marking or printing etc. onlybecomes visible when the device is switched on (for example when thereis vibration, oscillation or swiveling). That is to say that a differentimage/pattern is obtained by the motion of the marked applicator and/orcleaning elements than in the state of rest.

In the case of an electrical device, fixed and/or movable applicatorand/or cleaning elements may be marked/printed. Here, the marking overthe applicator and/or cleaning elements may continue over the fixed partto the movable part and the motion then causes different images to beobtained with a fixed part and a moved part. In this way, the motion canbe made visible by optical effects (for example in the case of smallmotions). Thus, for example, the marking/printing of the applicatorand/or cleaning elements of an oscillating electric toothbrush may havea pattern in the form of dots which becomes a line as a result of themotion. In this way, the oscillation angle can be indicated well to theuser.

Furthermore, the handle body may also be printed/marked on its variousparts.

The printing/marking of handle bodies may take place by various methods.

The printing/marking can cover a wide printing area. This does notnecessarily have to be flat, it may also have a curvature. The curvaturemay be circular, round or oval (considered in cross section). Thecurvature preferably has a radius (with the center point thelongitudinal axis of the handle body) of 2 mm to 15 mm, more preferablyof 4 mm to 8 mm.

The printing may be applied with the center point the longitudinal axisin cross section over an angle α—seen in the transverse direction. Theangle α is a maximum of 180° (preferably 120° to 180°); correspondingly,the upper surface area of the product can be printed in one stepsubstantially up to the separating plane.

For example, the pad printing method, inkjet printing or laser printingmay be used for the printing/marking mentioned. In this case it isimportant that the product or cleaning device to be printed is held wellin a mounting means (or a workpiece carrier) and thus assumes a clearlydefined position. The product or cleaning device to be printed isintended to be made level by the mounting means, in order to assume aposition on average that is as horizontal as possible. The mountingmeans may also be used to create a covering for certain parts of theproduct or cleaning device to be printed that must not be printed.

The pad that is usually used for transferring the ink has a curved form,adapted to the surface to be printed. This pad is deformed appropriatelyfor the applied print to have the correct appearance. In order for thisto be possible, the color of the print image on the pad is provided in adistorted form, so that after application to the curved surface theprint image has the correct appearance. The same applies to inkjetprinting or laser printing.

With the methods mentioned, handle bodies with strong curvatures can beprinted/marked transversely to the longitudinal direction. It is howeveralso possible in addition or as an alternative to print/mark curvaturesin the longitudinal direction of the handle body. The methods even allowhandle surfaces not only with convex zones but also concave zones to bemarked. The radii of curvature or transitions of the curved convex orconcave zones of the surfaces to be printed should not be below radii of2 mm, preferably 4 mm.

On the handle body, consequently, larger curved surfaces of 400-2000mm², preferably 500-1800 mm², particularly preferably 600-1400 mm², canbe printed/marked.

It is possible to interrupt the printed/marked surface, i.e. to print anumber of regions in one operation. The regions may be separated bydifferent material components. For example, a printed hard component onthe handle body may be separated into two or more printed regions by asoft component. Furthermore, for example, a printed hard component onthe handle body may be separated into two or more printed regions bysurface structures or discontinuities (edges, shoulders etc.) on thesurface of the hard component.

Preferred Parameters

Particularly preferred parameters for the marking/printing are specifiedbelow.

The preferred width/length of the marking/printing on the surface of thebristle area of the cleaning devices according to the invention is from0.01 mm to 50 mm, preferably from 1 mm to 20 mm.

The depth of the marking/printing (for example into the bristle area) isdependent on the density of the bristle packing and the properties ofthe medium to be marked/printed.

With regard to a packing density of the applicator and/or cleaningelements with which a marking/printing is possible, first the bristlespacings or the spacings of the surface areas to be marked/printed arediscussed.

The bristle density is understood as meaning the number of filament endsthat occur in a certain surface-area region. As far as the method ofcounting is concerned, it should also be said that, in the case of ananchor punching method, on a brush one filament gives two filament ends.

For a high bristle density (as achieved for example in the case of facebrushes), two preferred examples are specified:

Example A: here, the bristle hole diameter is about 1.77 mm, the bristlediameter about 3 mils, in the case of 220 bristles, which correspond to440 bristle ends (printing surface area/marking surface area).

Example B: here, the bristle hole diameter is about 2.3 mm, the bristlediameter about 2.5 mils, in the case of 146 bristles, which correspondto 292 bristle ends (printing surface area/marking surface area). In thecase of a conical bristle hole (i.e. the bristles splay out) thiscorresponds on the surface area to be marked/printed to a density of18.25 bristles/mm².

In the case of a low density (i.e. great bristle spacings), themarking/printing goes deeper into the bristle area than in the case of adense packing. The ratio of looseness to printing depth is not directlydeterminable, since it is dependent on the bristle component, theprinting means and the bristle density.

The resolution for instance of the printhead with respect to the bristledensity plays a role in determining the marking/printing possibilities.When there is a high resolution of the means for marking for example ofthe printhead, the bristle density can be smaller, and consequently amore readable marking/printing is produced.

Preferably, in the present case the bristle density for themarking/printing is from 12 bristles/mm² to 25 bristles/mm², preferablyfrom 16 bristles/mm² to 20 bristles/mm².

It may also be envisaged to provide different bristle densities in onebristle area. In this way, for example, different marking qualities, forexample print qualities, or different possibilities for the objectpresented can also be achieved. For example, to some extent aphotorealistic image in the region of the high densities and on theother hand a more simple print in the region of the lower densities.

The marking/printing may be one-colored, two-colored, three-colored,four-colored or generally multi-colored or photorealistic. It may haveone or more different properties in addition to the color or instead ofthe color. It may also have for instance different gradients, such asfor example a color gradient or a layer thickness gradient.

In the case of a multi-layered marking/printing, for example amulti-layer print, a number of layers with different properties,different images (for example, depending on the age of the users of abrush, something different is depicted) or else different chemicalproperties may be applied. The applicator and/or cleaning elements to beprinted are marked/printed in a number of passes.

The resolution of the marking/printing is in the present case preferably20 dpi to 3000 dpi, more preferably 150 dpi to 1500 dpi. The ratio ofdpi to the number of bristles/mm² is preferably 1:0.8 to 1:250,preferably 1:7.5 to 1:93.75.

The following applies for the minimum size of a surface area to beindividually marked/printed (i.e. in order that the representation canbe recognized): the surface area must be large enough to allow markingdots/printing dots to be “captured”. In particular, the number ofmarking dots/printing dots must be greater than the number of bristles,in order to two-dimensionally mark or print a surface area.

Within the scope of the present invention, the minimum size of thesurface area to be marked/printed is preferably 0.0001 mm².

The application surface for the marking/color medium may be on thesurface of the applicator and cleaning elements, i.e. the applicationmay be performed by adhesive bonding or powder (no adherence). The colormedium or the marking medium may in this case also penetrate into theapplicator and cleaning elements (for example by lasering or migrationof the marking/color medium).

With regard to the visibility of the marking/printing or the necessarycolor contrast, the colorfulness or the difference in colorfulness isspecified as a parameter. By definition, the colorfulness describes therelative color effect in relation to reference white, that is to say incomparison with a specific brightest point of a color space. Thecolorfulness is suitable as a measured value for instance for conicalcolor spaces, where measurements can be taken from the tip. In printing,these systems are in practice where paper white represents the zerocolor and it is necessary for precisely the same amount of color to beapplied for deep black as for vibrant red. White has a colorfulness of0, the color tones (shades of color) and deep black up to 100%, mediumgray 50%.

In order to achieve visibility on a white base area, the colorfulnessmust have a value of at least 40%, preferably of at least 50%.

In order to achieve visibility on colors other than white, thedifference in brightness must be at least 40%, preferably at least 50%(if the same colors are used). When using different colors, on the otherhand, the difference in colorfulness cannot be used as a measure.

Generally, it is possible to provide a priming with white color, inorder that the colors applied thereto are applied on a good base andvisually produce a good image. This avoids the base color of theapplicator and/or cleaning elements or of the handle body showingthrough.

Preferred Marking Methods/Printing Methods

Marking Methods/Printing Methods

Within the scope of the present invention, the preferred marking methodor printing method is the inkjet method. Here, printing is particularlypreferably performed with waxy ink. The ink may be water-soluble orwater-insoluble.

The waxy ink is in this case warmed up or melted and in the non-warmedstate is viscous to solid. It often can only be worked in the liquidstate. On contact with the surface to be marked/printed, the inksolidifies. Changes of color are always troublesome, because longdistances in tubes (or lines) have to be covered. The drying time of thewaxy ink is generally less than 2 seconds. After drying, the ink can betouched. For example, food wax 5012 from Markem Imaje (a Dover Company)may be used.

A variant that is likewise preferred is the UV direct printing method.Here, the ink does not dry in the ambient air, as it does for example ona sheet of paper, but is cured by ultraviolet light directly afterapplication to the surface of the substance to be marked/printed(substrate). The dried ink has in this case a slightly satined look,which very closely resembles high-quality printed paper. This results ina disadvantage with respect to durability under sunlight or adverseweather conditions. However, the UV curing has the effect on the onehand of increasing the resistance of the print and on the other hand ofproviding some protection from yellowing.

Also preferred in the present case is the laser method. In this case, onthe one hand a marking may be performed by means of a laser under thesurface of the applicator and/or cleaning elements. The advantage of amarking under the surface of the applicator and/or cleaning elements isthat the deep gloss is not impaired. In another variant of the lasermethod, the surface of the applicator and/or cleaning elements ismechanically/thermally changed. The actual color comes from thesubstrate and depends on the laser treatment. The surface is in thiscase preferably made to foam or “burnt”. It therefore does not involvean actual application of color, but a burning in.

A still further preferred method is that of screen printing. Theprinting form of the screen printing consists of a frame with a fabricstretched over it. A stencil is applied to the fabric photographically(in the case of artistic works sometimes also by hand). The stencilprevents color from being applied at those locations of the print imagethat are not to be printed. The printing form is subsequently fastenedin a printing machine over the material to be printed (substrate). Then,printing ink is applied to the fabric and the substrate is coated withit through the apertures of the stencil by a rubber squeegee (actinglike a doctor blade). The ink is thereby pressed through the meshes ofthe fabric and applied to the surface to be printed. After printing, theprinted material is removed from the machine or is laid out for drying.

The pad printing method may also be used within the scope of the presentinvention. Here, the print image that is to be transferred is exposedwith a positive film (offset film) onto a cliché. This cliché is thenwashed out and the exposed print image is left behind in a recessed formon the surface of the cliché. A distinction is made here in principlebetween steel clichés and plastic clichés. In the case of steel clichés,the print image is etched into the steel surface. Steel clichés are usedin particular in the case of very high numbers of recurring printimages.

In the present case, plastic clichés are preferably used, because theyadapt themselves well to the surface to be printed. As a result,non-planar printing surface areas/marking surface areas are also madepossible.

Pad printing generally requires a stable underlying surface. Within thescope of the present invention, it may be used especially for themarking/printing of bristle pucks, since here the bristles can be fixedor secured well. With necessary aids, applicator and/or cleaningelements can likewise be marked/printed.

Different marking/printing methods can be combined for themarking/printing.

In addition to the applicator and/or cleaning elements, further elementsand zones on the product can also be marked/printed by the samemarking/printing method. For example, the handle body or the hand partmay be marked/printed by the same method as the applicator and/orcleaning elements.

Depending on the method, variants are possible (for exampleindividualized production, for instance with a batch size of 1).

In order to improve the adherence of the medium on the part to beprinted, it may be necessary to subject the surface to a pretreatment.By means for example of gas treatment, plasma treatment, coronatreatment or ion treatment, the surface is prepared in order that theprint can adhere.

Properties of Preferred Marking/Color Media Such as Inks/Toners/CoatingsEtc.

In addition to the standard constituents, in particular the ink that ispreferably used here—but also the toners, coatings or othermarking/color media—may contain flavorings, cosmetics (the use ofsupporting elements), abrasive elements (synthetic or natural, such asfor instance corundum) and/or an active substance.

An active substance is understood in the present case as meaning asubstance that delivers an effect in the respective application area.

A distinction is made between the following types of active substances:

(A) Oral-hygiene active substances with a toothpaste-like effect, whichcan make conventional toothpaste superfluous. The following contentscome into consideration for this: sorbitol, flavoring agents, hydratedsilica, sodium lauryl sulfate, sodium monofluorophosphate, creatine,zinc sulfate, triclosan, glycerin, sodium saccharin, propylene glycol,disodium phosphate, alumina, trisodium phosphate, sodium fluoride,betaine, titanium dioxide, cellulose gum, tetrasodium pyrophosphate,etc.

(B) Active substances with an antibacterial effect for occasionalcleaning of the brush head in a teeth-cleaning beaker before or aftercleaning the teeth. The following contents come into consideration forthis: sodium bicarbonate, citric acid, phosphoric acid, sodiumcarbonate, potassium carbonate, sodium perborate, sodiumhexametaphosphate, sodium benzoate, sodium stearate, etc.

(C) Active substances that indicate the success of cleaning by means ofstaining the plaque on the surface of the teeth (i.e. by means ofstaining the plaque residues). The following contents come intoconsideration for this: glucose, maltodextrin, magnesium stearate,flavoring agent, saccharin, microcrystalline cellulose, etc.

(D) Additional active substances that do not occur in conventionalpastes but complement or intensify their effect (cf. in each casecontents from (A) to (C)).

(E) Active substances for bleaching teeth (“bleaching”), such as forexample those with contents containing hydrogen peroxide.

(F) Two-component systems comprising active substances and speciallydeveloped toothpaste, which cause a chemical or physical reaction whenthey meet.

In principle, both single use of an active substance and multiple use ispossible in this case. In the case of single use, one use uses up aportion of active substance. In the case of multiple use, one use onlyuses up part of the portion of active substance.

It goes without saying that the concentration or the amount of theactive substance in the case of intended single use is set much lowerthan in the case of multiple use. In the case of single use, theconcentration corresponds approximately to the concentration of theactive substances of conventional pastes. In the case of any multipleuse, the corresponding concentration is increased by a multiple. Inaddition to the concentration, the time the portion of active substancewill last/duration of its use can also be influenced by thewater-solubility and water circulation or corresponding openings.

The main requirements for such active-substance additives in themarking/color medium are that they must be processed by themarking/printing method, for example the active substance dissolved inthe marking/color medium in an ink must pass through the nozzle of aninkjet or the corresponding method and it must be compatible with thecarrier of the marking medium (for example the wax). Of course,depending on the application area, other preconditions are also forexample suitability for use in food, suitability for use in cosmeticsand the like.

With respect to resistance, permanent or waterproof marking/color media,for example inks etc., can be used or else non-permanent media. Thenon-permanent marking/color media, for example inks etc., are in thiscase preferably water-soluble or can be removed by abrasion.

The drying time for the aforementioned marking/color media, for exampleinks etc., should be as short as possible, i.e. preferably less than 2seconds, or made to match the cycle of the respective machine (orfaster). If necessary, a subsequent treatment must be performed, inorder that the marking/printing dries well (for example by means of air,heat and/or light) or that it becomes touch dry.

For reasons of compliance, the marking/color media must, depending onthe application area, be suitable for physical contact and/orconsumption, i.e. suitable for use in food.

The marking/color media may in principle be of any color (white, black,brightly colored, etc). The choice of color also depends here on therespective marking or printing method. With a view to visibility,however, opaque colors or translucent colors are preferably used.

In the case of the marking/color media, they must in particular adhereto the material components of the applicator and/or cleaning elementsand/or the handle body. Furthermore, the markability or printability ofthe material components of the applicator and/or cleaning elementsand/or the handle body must be ensured.

Preferred Installation of the Marking/Printing Means or PrintheadInstallation

The marking/printing means or the printhead is preferably installed suchthat it can be moved over three axes (X, Y, Z). In addition, it maypreferably also be rotated or swiveled about these axes. In this way,the same distance from the product can always be maintained and it isalso possible for 3D bodies to be marked/printed, i.e. bodies on whichthe corresponding surface areas have a 3D contour. As a variant, thebrush handle (handle body) may also be marked/printed parallel to thebristle area.

Preferred heights of the surface areas to be marked (of themarking/printing area) or printhead heights range from 5 mm to 100 mm,more preferably from 10 mm to 50 mm. The preferred number of nozzles ofthe printhead often ranges from 5 to 500, more preferably from 10 to300.

The preferred marking/printing speed ranges from 2 m per minute to 100 mper minute, more preferably from 5 m per minute to 60 m per minute.

In the case of a printhead that is not adjustable in height, theprinthead is installed such that it is arranged at an average distancefrom the part to be printed. That is to say that, when printing curvedsurface areas, the distance is measured and averaged and the averagedamount corresponds to the optimum print distance. In this way, regionswith a greater distance than the optimum distance and regions with asmaller distance than the optimum distance are produced.

For exact printing, it is generally the case that the accuracy of thealignment of the printhead with respect to the part to be printed isessential, in order that the print on the part ends up being providedexactly at the correct location within small tolerances.

With regard to the motion during the marking/printing process, thefollowing preferred variants are specified:

Variant (A): the means for the marking/printing (for example theprinthead) is fixed, the chain or the belt (as the transporting devicefor the product) with the product moves. Or the means for themarking/printing or the printhead moves and the product is fixed. Here,marking/printing is only possible on the width (i.e. over the height) ofthe marking/printing means.

Variant (B): the marking/printing means (for example the printhead) ismovable (3D), the chain or belt (as the transporting device for theproduct) with the product moves. Here, marking/printing of a surfacearea with a topography is possible (larger marking/printing region).

Variant (C): the marking/printing means (for example the printhead) ismovable (3D), the product is fixed. Likewise marking/printing of asurface area with a topography is possible here (larger marking/printingregion).

Variant (D): the marking/printing means (for example the printhead) ismovable, the product rotates. This is necessary for example for spiralmarking/printing or for 360° marking/printing of a twisted-in brush.

In the process, generally a maximum of 30 cycles are provided in thecase of integration in the punching machine (for example in the AFTmethod, PTt method or in the case of conventional punching). Preferably,in the present case 15 to 30, more preferably 20 to 30, cycles areprovided. The number of cycles in the punching process is dependent onthe bristle area, i.e. on the number of picks, of the tufts of bristlesthat have to be provided.

In one variant, a number of brushes are worked, i.e. marked/printed, inparallel. In this way, the cycle time can be kept the same, but thenumber of brushes increased.

Preferred Incorporation in the Process

Incorporation in the production process can take place as follows:

Before attaching the bristles: if the raw material or semifinishedproduct is marked/printed. It should be noted here that re-working mayabrasively remove the marking/print (for example on the bristles or onthe brush handle).

After attaching the bristles: if the bristle area is marked/printed.This means in the case of injection-molded bristles, soft elasticcleaning elements and AFT head plates, after the injection molding.

In the case of punched bristles/twisted-in bristles, this means afterproviding the bristles or before packing. The preferred sequence in thiscase is: punching-cutting-rounding-marking/printing. Themarking/printing means (for example the printhead) is moved directly onthe punching machine, while the product moves in the method step. Thepunching method is in this case unspecified, for example conventional,anchorless (AFT, PTt, IMT method), twisting machine or brush production,etc.

Working during punching comprises the steps of:punching-cutting-marking/printing-rounding (grinding) (i.e. the bristlesare in any case partially colored). A variant in a double punchingmachine comprises punching in multiple steps:punching-cutting-rounding-marking/printing-punching-cutting-rounding(-marking/printing). Here, lateral marking/printing is possible, butalso 3D effects or a number of marking/printing levels in the samebristle area are made possible.

Integration before packing may also provide an intermediate step on thepackaging machine.

Integration in the process may on the one hand take place in-line, i.e.directly on the existing production machines (with an additional workingstep), or off-line, i.e. with a separate device just for performing themarking/printing step. The off-line variant is intended for instance forindividual in-store creative design.

The medium to be marked/printed may be held in a fixed or moving mannerin the process, depending on whether the printhead is installed in afixed or moving manner and of course also dependent on the motif and theprinting surface area/marking surface area.

Aids for an exact marking/exact print include inter alia masks forcovering parts that are not to be marked/printed.

Furthermore, deforming elements may be provided, which straighten themedium to be marked/printed before the marking/printing and allow it toreturn to the original position again after the marking/printing. Thismay comprise the displacing of applicator and/or cleaning elements, thatis to say the pushing away of applicator and/or cleaning elements thatare not to be marked/printed (i.e. tufts of bristles and/or TPE elementsare bent). In this way, a marking/printing at depth, for example behindother applicator and/or cleaning elements, is made possible. It is ofcourse also possible for the applicator and/or cleaning elements to bepushed together for the marking/printing.

Finally, a stencil may be provided in the bristle area and removed afterthe marking/printing. Such a stencil is used for instance wheneverisolated tufts in a bristle area are to be marked/printed. Before thepunching, for this a covering element is arranged over the surface areato be provided with bristles. Then punching is carried out through thecovering element. Before the marking/printing, the covering element ismoved vertically, so that only the tips of the tufts of bristles stillshow through the covering element and can subsequently bemarked/printed. After that, the stencil is removed by being moved out.As a result, marking/printing alongside the desired tufts can beavoided.

In the case of printing the handle body, stencils may likewise be used,in order to protect or cover parts that are not to be printed.

Within the scope of the present invention, in principle the handle canbe marked/printed in the same method step as the applicator and/orcleaning elements.

Embodiments of the invention that are given by way of example arerepresented for the purposes of illustration in the accompanyingdrawings,

in which:

FIG. 1: shows a perspective view of a toothbrush head according to theinvention with marking/printing on the upper, longitudinal and frontsides of the bristle area;

FIG. 2: shows a perspective view of a toothbrush head according to theinvention analogous to FIG. 1 with a marked/printed tongue cleanerelement on the rear side;

FIG. 3: shows a perspective view of a further toothbrush head accordingto the invention with marking/printing around a corner on the upper,longitudinal and front sides of the bristle area;

FIG. 4a : shows a side view of a (round) toothbrush head according tothe invention for an electrically oscillating toothbrush with aconventionally punched bristle area with a laterally applied pattern inthe state of rest;

FIG. 4b : shows the toothbrush head according to the invention accordingto FIG. 4a in motion;

FIG. 5a : shows a plan view of a further (round) toothbrush headaccording to the invention with a conventionally punched bristle areafor an electrically oscillating toothbrush with a pattern applied on topof the bristle area in the state of rest;

FIG. 5b : shows the toothbrush head according to the invention accordingto FIG. 5a in motion;

FIG. 6a : shows a perspective view of a toothbrush head according to theinvention for an electrically swiveling toothbrush with a patternapplied on top of the bristle area in the state of rest;

FIG. 6b : shows the toothbrush head according to the invention accordingto FIG. 6a in motion;

FIG. 7a : shows a side view of an interdental or mascara brush accordingto the invention with an applied longitudinal pattern or longitudinalstrip;

FIG. 7b : shows a perspective view of the interdental or mascara brushaccording to FIG. 7 a;

FIG. 8a : shows a side view of an interdental or mascara brush accordingto the invention with an applied wave pattern;

FIG. 8b : shows a perspective view of the interdental or mascara brushaccording to FIG. 8 a;

FIG. 9a : shows a side view of an interdental or mascara brush accordingto the invention with an applied 360° pattern in the form of a spiral;

FIG. 9b : shows a perspective view of the interdental or mascara brushaccording to FIG. 9 a;

FIG. 10: shows a perspective view of an interdental or mascara brushaccording to the invention with an applied logo;

FIG. 11: shows a plan view of a flosser according to the invention withmarked/printed dental floss;

FIG. 12a : shows a plan view of an interdental cleaner according to theinvention with transversely marked/printed cleaning elements;

FIG. 12b : shows a side view of the interdental cleaner according toFIG. 12 a;

FIG. 13a : shows a plan view of a face brush according to the inventionwith a pattern applied on top of the bristle area;

FIG. 13b : shows a side view of the face brush according to FIG. 13a ,which shows an additional marking/printing running around laterally(360°);

FIG. 14: shows a perspective view of a brush according to the inventionwith a marking/printing around a corner;

FIG. 15 shows a schematic front view of an arrangement formarking/printing the bristle area of a cleaning device;

FIG. 16 shows a plan view of a schematic arrangement formarking/printing the bristle area of a schematically representedcleaning device according to a first variant;

FIG. 17 shows a plan view of a schematic arrangement for marking thebristle area of a schematically represented cleaning device according toa second variant;

FIG. 18 shows a plan view of a schematic arrangement for marking thebristle area of a schematically represented cleaning device according toa third variant;

FIG. 19 shows a plan view of a schematic arrangement for marking thebristle area of a schematically represented cleaning device according toa fourth variant;

FIG. 20 shows a plan view of a schematic arrangement for marking thebristle area of a schematically represented cleaning device according toa fifth variant;

FIG. 21 shows a perspective view of a toothbrush handle body accordingto the invention with marking/printing on the front side;

FIG. 22 shows a plan view of the toothbrush handle body from FIG. 21;

FIG. 23 shows a plan view of a further toothbrush handle body withmarking/printing on the front side; and

FIG. 24 shows a cross section perpendicularly to the longitudinal axisof a toothbrush handle body with marking/printing on the front side.

In FIG. 1, a head part 2 for a manual toothbrush 1 is illustrated.Protruding from the upper side 2 a of the approximately rectangular headpart 2 are various applicator and/or cleaning elements 5 a, 5 b and 5 c,which together form the bristle area 6.

Arranged on the front side 10 of the bristle area 6 are splaying-outtufts of bristles 5 a, which widen conically from the upper side 2 a ofthe head part 2 in the direction of their free end. In the present case,the splaying-out tufts of bristles 5 a extend to approximately themiddle of the bristle area 6 or the head part 2. They comprise in thiscase the front rows on the head part 2 and are arranged transversely inrelation to the longitudinal axis L of the head part 2.

The approximately middle row of applicator and/or cleaning elements isformed by lamella-like rubber elements 5 b, which are likewise arrangedtransversely in relation to the longitudinal axis L of the head part 2.

These are followed by conventional (cylindrical) tufts of bristles 5 c,which are likewise arranged in rows transversely in relation to thelongitudinal axis L of the head part 2 and which also form the rear side14 of the bristle area 6. The rear side 14 of the bristle area 6 isfacing the handle part 3 of the toothbrush.

The bristle area 6 is marked/printed on its upper side 9, its front side10 and its longitudinal side 11 with a marking/color medium 7. Themarking/printing may in this case comprise for example a logo, an image,an instruction for use or a code etc. (the “text” serves in the presentcase as a placeholder). The marking/printing may in this case beprovided so as to run 360° around the bristle area 6, i.e. completelyalong the outer sides 11, and also the front and rear sides 10, 14. Inthis case, each individual one of the outer applicator and/or cleaningelements 5 a, 5 b, 5 c may be entirely or partially marked/printed withthe color medium in the region of its outer side. However, gaps may alsobe left (i.e. for instance an unprinted or unmarked applicator and/orcleaning element 5 a, 5 b, 5 c between two marked/printed ones).

Also on the upper side 9 of the bristle area 6, in principle eachindividual one of the applicator and/or cleaning elements may beentirely or partially marked/printed with the marking/color medium 7. Independence on the geometry of the holes, there may be various densitiesin the bristle area 6 (i.e. in particular the splaying-out tufts ofbristles 5 a and the conventional tufts of bristles 5 c that havepreferably been applied here by the anchor punching method). The bristlearea 6 may for example be more dense at the front than at the rear, butthe converse arrangement is also possible.

As in all of the other embodiments shown, the marking/color medium 7 ispreferably a waxy, quick-drying ink. The pattern shown also serves inprinciple as a placeholder for various types of other configurations ofthe marking/printing that are presented above in the generaldescription.

The head part 2 shown in FIG. 2 has on its rear side 2 b a tonguecleaner 12 comprising a soft component, which comprises a number of nubs12 a and lamellae 12 b. The soft component of the tongue cleaner 12 inthis case covers almost the entire rear side 2 b of the head part 2,apart from the edge 2 c. The tongue cleaner 12 to this extent forms asit were an island of a soft component on the rear side 2 b of the headpart 2.

The tongue cleaner 12 is in this case marked/printed with amarking/color medium 7. The marking/printing may comprise for example alogo, instructions for use or a code etc. (the “text” once again servesin the present case as a placeholder). The marking/printing runs overthe lamellae 12 b, which are arranged in the front region of the tonguecleaner 12, and also over flat regions in the middle region of thetongue cleaner 12. The marking/printing may however also go over thenubs 12 a.

Here, too, the marking/color medium 7 is preferably a waxy, quick-dryingink. Apart from the marked/printed tongue cleaner 12, the head part 2may also have marked/printed applicator and/or cleaning elements 5 a, 5b, 5 c (as in FIG. 1), i.e. splaying-out tufts of bristles 5 a,lamella-like rubber elements 5 b and conventional tufts of bristles 5 c.In the present case, the nubs 12 a are provided on the outer andlongitudinal sides of the tongue cleaner 12. The lamellae 12 b arepreferably arranged transversely in relation to the longitudinal axis Lof the head part 2.

The text pattern also serves in principle as a placeholder for variousother configurations of the marking/printing that are presented above inthe general description.

In FIG. 3 there is illustrated a further head part 2 for a toothbrush 1,which once again has various applicator and/or cleaning elements 5 a, 5b, 5 c, 5 d, 5 e, which form the bristle area 6. The front side 10 ofthe bristle area 6 is formed by a large tuft of bristles or puck tuft 5d, which is arranged transversely in relation to the longitudinal axis Lof the head part 2. This is followed behind it by a number ofsplaying-out tufts of bristles 5 a, which once again are arranged in anumber of rows transversely in relation to the longitudinal axis L ofthe head part 2. Approximately in the middle of the head part 2,lamella-like rubber elements 5 b are then likewise arranged transverselyin relation to the longitudinal axis L of the head part 2. The rear side14 of the bristle area 6 is formed by a puck tuft 5 e, which is somewhatsmaller than the front puck tuft 5 d.

It is evident that, in the case of the front puck tuft 5 d, amarking/printing has been applied around a corner, here by way ofexample in the form of a ring-like marking/printing, which extends overthe outer side 11, the front side 10 and also the upper side 9 of thepuck tuft 5 d (or of the bristle area 6). The marking/printing thereforeruns over the upper, front and longitudinal or outer edge 8 a, 8 b, 8 cof the puck tuft 5 d (or of the bristle area 6). Markings/printings arerespectively applied, also around a corner, on the conventional tufts ofbristles 5 c and the rear puck tuft 5 e, to be precise in each case fromthe outer side 11 onto the upper side 9, i.e. over the longitudinal orouter edge 8 c of these elements.

In particular, the puck tufts 5 d, 5 e have preferably been applied bymeans of the AFT method. As can be seen, the marking/printing may alsobe performed asymmetrically. Moreover, large tufts, such as the pucktufts 5 d, 5 e, in each case provide large printing areas.

The patterns shown also serve in principle as a placeholder for variousother configurations of the marking/printing that are presented above inthe general description.

FIGS. 4a and 4b illustrate a round head part 2 for, in particular,electrically oscillating toothbrushes with a punched bristle area 6comprising preferably conventional tufts of bristles 5 c. On the outerside 11 of the bristle area 6, a pattern is applied by means of amarking/color medium 7. In the state of rest, which is shown in FIG. 4a, the pattern has, purely by way of example, the form of a dot. In themoved state, i.e. in the operating state of the toothbrush, this patternchanges its form. As can be seen in FIG. 4b , in the present case thisresults in a slot-like/linear/line-shaped form for the pattern. Such apattern may in principle also be marked/printed around a corner, i.e.over the upper edge 16 of the bristle area 6.

The pattern also serves in principle as a placeholder for various otherconfigurations of the marking/printing that are presented above in thegeneral description.

In FIGS. 5a and 5b there is illustrated a round head part 2 for, inparticular, electrically oscillating toothbrushes with a punched bristlearea 6 comprising preferably conventional tufts of bristles 5 c. On theupper side 9 of the bristle area 6 or the upper side of individualconventional tufts of bristles 5 c, a marking/printing is applied bymeans of a marking/color medium 7. The marking/printing may entirely orpartially cover the upper side of the individual conventional tufts ofbristles 5 c. In the state of rest, which is shown in FIG. 5a , here anumber of conventional tufts of bristles 5 c in the outer ring arepartially marked or printed on the upper side (i.e. on their half lyinginward toward the center point M of the head part 2). In a ring situatedfurther inward (i.e. toward the center point M of the head part 2), anumber of conventional tufts of bristles 5 c are marked/printedcompletely on their upper side. This pattern once again changes its formin the moved state, i.e. in the operating state of the toothbrush (FIG.5b ). In the present case, concentric circles of different diameters areobtained.

This pattern also serves in principle as a placeholder for various otherconfigurations of the marking/printing that are presented above in thegeneral description.

In FIGS. 6a and 6b there is shown a head part 2 for, for example, anelectrically swiveling toothbrush. Protruding from the upper side 2 a ofthe approximately rectangular head part 2 are various applicator and/orcleaning elements 5 a, 5 b and 5 c, which together form the bristle area6. Arranged on the front side 10 of the bristle area 6 are splaying-outtufts of bristles 5 a, which widen conically from the upper side 2 a ofthe head part 2 in the direction of their free end.

In the present case, the splaying-out tufts of bristles 5 a extend up toapproximately the middle of the bristle area 6 or the head part 2. Theycomprise in this case the front rows on the head part 2 and are arrangedtransversely in relation to the longitudinal or swivel axis L of thehead part 2. The approximately middle row of applicator and/or cleaningelements is formed by lamella-like rubber elements 5 c, which arelikewise arranged transversely in relation to the longitudinal axis L ofthe head part 2.

These are followed by conventional (cylindrical) tufts of bristles 5 c,which are likewise arranged in rows transversely in relation to thelongitudinal axis L of the head part 2 and which also form the rear side14 of the bristle area 6. The rear side 14 of the bristle area 6 isfacing the handle part 3 of the toothbrush.

Here, the bristle area 6 is only marked/printed on its upper side 9 witha marking/color medium 7. In the present case, a number of thesplaying-out tufts of bristles 5 a are marked/printed on their upperside with a marking/color medium 7 such that a dotted diagonal isobtained. Furthermore, a number of the conventional tufts of bristles 5c on the longitudinal or outer side 11 of the bristle area 6 aremarked/printed on their upper side with a marking/color medium 7, sothat a dotted line is obtained parallel to the swivel axis L. Thispattern indicates the state of rest shown in FIG. 6 a.

In the moved or operating state of the toothbrush that is shown in FIG.6b , the pattern changes to a cloud-like structure. Here, too, thepattern also serves in principle as a placeholder for various otherconfigurations of the marking/printing that are presented above in thegeneral description. The pattern may once again change state such thatthe representation in the state without motion does not reveal anythingspecial, while the effective pattern only forms when there is motion.

Furthermore, in dependence on the geometry of the holes, there may bevarious densities in the bristle area 6 (i.e. in particular thesplaying-out tufts of bristles 5 a and the conventional tufts ofbristles 5 c have preferably been applied here by the anchor punchingmethod). The bristle area 6 may for example be more dense at the frontthan at the rear, and vice versa.

In FIGS. 7a and 7b there is shown a twisted-in brush 1, which can beused for example as an interdental or mascara brush. From the neck part3 of the brush 1 there extends a double wire 13 into which bristles 5 fare spirally twisted. The wire 13 with the bristles 5 f to this extentcorresponds to the head part of the brush 1. The spirally twisted-inbristles 5 f form a bristle area 6 that is approximately cylindrical inside view.

Along the longitudinal or outer side 11 of the bristle area 6, alongitudinal strip or longitudinal pattern is applied by means of amarking medium/color medium 7. Once again, the longitudinal strip or thelongitudinal pattern also serves in principle as a placeholder forvarious other configurations of the marking that are presented above inthe general description.

In FIGS. 8a and 8b there is shown a further twisted-in brush 1, whichcan be used for example as an interdental or mascara brush. From theneck part 3 of the brush 1 there extends once again a double wire 13into which bristles 5 f are spirally twisted. The wire 13 with thebristles 5 f corresponds to this extent to the head part of the brush 1.The spirally twisted-in bristles 5 f form a bristle area 6 that isapproximately cylindrical in side view.

Along the longitudinal or outer side 11 of the bristle area 6, awave-shaped pattern is applied by means of a marking medium/color medium7. The wave-shaped pattern also serves in principle as a placeholder fora variety of other configurations of the marking that are presentedabove in the general description.

In FIGS. 9a and 9b there is shown a still further twisted-in brush 1,which can be used for example as an interdental or mascara brush. Fromthe neck part 3 of the brush 1 there extends once again a double wire 13into which bristles 5 f are spirally twisted. The wire 13 with thebristles 5 f corresponds to this extent to the head part of the brush 1.The spirally twisted-in bristles 5 f form a bristle area 6 that isapproximately cylindrical in side view.

Along the outer side 11 of the bristle area 6, a 360° pattern somewhatin the manner of a spiral is applied by means of a marking/color medium7. The spiral-like 360° pattern also serves in principle as aplaceholder for various other configurations of the marking/printingthat are presented above in the general description.

In FIG. 10 there is schematically shown yet a further twisted-in brush1, which can be used for example as an interdental or mascara brush. Thefigure is intended to illustrate how the twisted-in brushes 1 usuallyappear due to the splaying out of the bristles 5 f. To be specific, thebristle area is rather more of a cylinder than a spiral. From the neckpart 3 of the brush 1 there extends once again a double wire 13 intowhich splaying-out bristles 5 f are twisted. The wire 13 with thebristles 5 f corresponds to this extent to the head part of the brush 1.The bristles 5 f normally splay out automatically, and therefore theyare represented in the present figure as a (continuously) cylindricalbristle area 6.

On the outer side 11 of the bristle area 6, a text pattern is applied bymeans of a marking/color medium 7. The text pattern also serves inprinciple as a placeholder for various other configurations of themarking/printing that are presented above in the general description.

FIG. 11 shows a flosser (flossing implement) 1 with a handle part 4, aU-shaped head part 2 and a neck part 3 connecting the handle part 4 tothe head part 2. Fixed between the free ends of the U-shaped head part 2is for instance a thread of dental floss 5 g. The thread of dental floss5 g is marked/printed here with a dashed pattern by means of amarking/color medium 7.

This may serve for example as a seal of newness for the dental floss, inthat the medium, for example the color, is worn away during use.Furthermore, in this way a flavor can also be applied. The pattern alsoserves however in principle as a placeholder for various otherconfigurations of the marking/printing that are presented above in thegeneral description.

FIGS. 12a and 12b show an interdental brush 1 with a handle part 4, aconically tapering head part 2 and a neck part 3 connecting the handlepart 4 to the head part 2. The handle part 4 has mounting projections 4a, preferably comprising a soft component. Molded onto the tapering headpart 2 are cleaning elements 5 h (once again preferably comprising asoft component), which preferably protrude upwardly and laterally on thehead part 2 (i.e. from a layer of soft component 15) and likewise taperin the direction of the free end of the head part. The cleaning elements5 h form a bristle area 6.

In the present case, a number of the upwardly protruding cleaningelements 5 h are marked/printed by means of a marking/color medium 7 atleast on their upper side (i.e. transversely) in the manner of a zebrapattern. This may for example serve the user as an orientation aidduring use. However, this pattern also serves in principle as aplaceholder for various other configurations of the marking/printingthat are presented above in the general description.

In FIGS. 13a and 13b there is shown a head part 2 for a face brush.Protruding from the front side 2 a of the head part 2 are preferablysplaying-out tufts of bristles 5 a, which together form the bristle area6. As can be seen in FIG. 13a , a wave-shaped pattern is applied bymeans of a marking/color medium 7 to the upper side 9 of the bristlearea 6, along the longitudinal axis L of the substantially oval brushhead 2, over a number of splaying-out tufts of bristles 5 a lying nextto one another. With extreme splaying, it is possible that the bristlearea 6 forms, as it were, a continuous surface area on the upper side 9.In this case, some of the splaying-out tufts of bristles lying on theoutside in the wave-shaped pattern are only partially marked, forexample printed, on their surface (i.e. generally only the inward-lyinghalves are marked/printed).

Furthermore, as can be seen in FIG. 13b , the bristle area 6 ismarked/printed by means of a marking/color medium 7 on its outer side 11with a number of wave-shaped lines, which preferably run around theentire outer side 11 (i.e. 360°). The aforementioned patterns also servehowever in principle as a placeholder for various other configurationsof the marking/printing that are presented above in the generaldescription

FIG. 14 illustrates a paintbrush-like brush 1, which can also be usedfor instance as a mascara or nail varnish brush. The neck part 3 isfollowed by an annular head part 2, to which one or more preferablysplaying-out tufts of bristles 5 a are applied. The correspondingbristle area 6 preferably has a barrel-shaped or, as here, conicalcontour.

Applied to the bristle area 6 by means of a marking/color medium 7 is atext pattern, which extends from the outer side 11 over the upper edge16 onto the upper side 9 of the bristle area 6 (i.e. a marking/printingaround a corner). Here, too, the text pattern serves in principle as aplaceholder for various other configurations of the marking/printingthat are presented above in the general description.

FIG. 15 shows purely schematically a front view along the axis of motionZ of an arrangement for marking/printing the bristle area 6 of a brush1. The arrangement comprises a marking/printing means 20 (for example aprinthead or laser), which has a specific marking area/printing area 21within which a marking/printing of the bristle area 6 and/or of thehandle body with the handle part 4, the neck part 3 and the head part 2with a marking/color medium can be performed. The brush 1 with thehandle part 4 is held by a mounting means 23, which is arranged on atransporting device 22 (for example a transporting belt). The system ofcoordinates indicates the axes X, Y and Z along which, and possiblyabout which, the marking/printing means 20 and possibly the brush 1 canpreferably move. The system of coordinates also applies to all of theother figures, the Z axis corresponding to the longitudinal axis of thebrush 1 and the X and Y axes extending perpendicularly to it.

In the variant according to FIG. 16, the marking/printing means 20 ispreferably arranged rigidly or fixed and the mounting means 23 with thebrush 1 moves laterally (arrows P1) past the marking/printing means 20,i.e. along the Z axis. The transporting device 22 has been omitted herefor reasons of clarity. In this way, an outer or longitudinal side 11 ofthe bristle area 6 and/or of the handle body with the handle part 4, theneck part 3 and the head part 2 can be marked or printed. However, themarking/printing means 20 may similarly be arranged rigidly or fixedabove the bristle area 6, in order to mark/print the upper side 9 of thebristle area 6. The variant according to FIG. 16 is also suitable inparticular for the marking/printing of bristle pucks (i.e. bristles,cut, arranged clustered together from semifinished products).

In the variant according to FIG. 17, preferably the marking/printingmeans 20 is arranged on the mounting device 23 movably with respect tothe brush 1 (the converse situation in terms of motion in comparisonwith FIG. 16). The marking/printing means 20 in this case moveslaterally (arrows P1′) past the bristle area 6 and the handle body ofthe brush 1, i.e. along the Z axis. The transporting device 20 has beenomitted here for reasons of clarity. In this way, once again an outer orlongitudinal side 11 of the bristle area 6 and/or of the handle bodywith the handle part 4, the neck part 3 and the head part 2 can bemarked or printed. However, the marking/printing means 20 may similarlybe arranged movably above the bristle area 6 or handle body, in order tomark/print the upper side 9 of the bristle area 6.

In the variant according to FIG. 18, preferably both themarking/printing means 20 is arranged movably with respect to the brush1 and the brush 1 is arranged movably with respect to themarking/printing means 20. The marking/printing means 20 can in thiscase move laterally (arrows P1′) past the bristle area 6 or the handlebody of the brush 1 (i.e. along the Z axis), transversely (arrow P2′) inrelation to the bristle area 6 or the handle body of the brush 1 (i.e.along the X axis), vertically with respect to the bristle area 6 or thehandle body (i.e. along the Y axis, not shown) and/or it can be broughtinto a position above the bristle area 6 or the handle body or onto theother side of the bristle area 6 or the handle body in a dome-likerotating motion (arrow P3′) with respect to the Z axis (i.e. a motion inthe X and Y planes). At the same time, the mounting means 23 with thebrush 1 can be moved laterally (arrows P1) past the marking/printingmeans 20, i.e. along the Z axis. Once again, here the transportingdevice 22 has been omitted for reasons of clarity.

In this way, the upper side 9 and both outer or longitudinal sides 11 ofthe bristle area 6 and also the handle body or the head, neck and handleparts 2, 3, 4 of the brush 1 can be marked, for example printed, at ahigh cycle rate.

The marking/printing means 20 can however similarly be brought into aposition in front of the bristle area 6 (front side) or the handle bodyor onto the other side of the bristle area 6 (rear side) or the handlebody in a dome-like rotating motion with respect to the X axis (i.e. amotion in the Y and Z planes, not shown), so that the front side 10 andboth outer or longitudinal sides 11 of the bristle area 6 (and possiblyalso its rear side) and also possibly the front and side edges of thebrush 1 can be marked or printed (not represented for reasons ofclarity).

The variant shown in FIG. 19 corresponds to the variant represented inFIG. 18; however, here the mounting means 23 with the brush 1 is notmovable. However, the marking or printing possibilities are the samehere.

In the variant according to FIG. 20, preferably both themarking/printing means 20 is arranged movably with respect to the brush1 and the brush 1 on the mounting device is movable with respect to themarking/printing means 20. The marking/printing means 20 in this casemoves laterally (arrows P1′) past the bristle area 6 or the handle bodyof the brush 1, i.e. along the Z axis. The brush 1 (preferably a mascaraor interdental brush) is arranged rotationally movably (arrow P4) withrespect to the marking/printing means 20 (i.e. rotation about the Zaxis). The transporting device 22 has been omitted here for reasons ofclarity.

In this way, in particular the outer side 11 of the bristle area 6 ofmascara and interdental brushes can be marked or printed (360°marking/printing) or else the outer sides of the handle body can beprinted 360°. However, the marking/printing means 20 may similarly bearranged movably above the bristle area 6, in order to mark/print theouter side or outer surface area 11 of the bristle area 6.

In FIGS. 21 and 22 there is illustrated a handle body consisting of ahandle part 4, a neck part 3 and a head part 2 of a manual toothbrush 1.The bristle area has not been formed; all that is shown are the bristleholes, that is to say the holes in the head part 2 that serve foranchoring the applicator and cleaning elements.

The handle body is marked/printed on its front side with a marking/colormedium 7. The marking/printing may in this case comprise variouselements. Shown by way of example are an image/ornament, a logo (the“text” serves in the present case as a placeholder) and a QR code. Themarking/printing may in this case be made to run 360° around the handlebody. As in all of the other embodiments shown, the marking/color medium7 is preferably a waxy, quick-drying ink. The pattern shown also servesin principle as a placeholder for various other configurations of themarking/printing that are presented above in the general description.

In FIG. 23 there is illustrated a further handle body consisting of ahandle part 4, a neck part 3 and a head part 2 of a manual toothbrush 1.In this example, the handle body is made of wood. The bristle area hasnot been formed; all that is shown are the bristle holes, that is to saythe holes in the head part 2 that serve for anchoring the applicator andcleaning elements.

The handle body is marked/printed on its front side with a marking/colormedium 7. The marking/printing may in this case comprise variouselements. Shown by way of example are an image/ornament, a logo (the“text” serves in the present case as a placeholder) and a QR code. Themarking/printing may in this case be made to run 360° around the handlebody. As in all of the other embodiments shown, the marking/color medium7 is preferably a waxy, quick-drying ink. The pattern shown also servesin principle as a placeholder for various other configurations of themarking/printing that are presented above in the general description.

A further marking in the form of two elements is evident in the regionof the thumb rest. A grid-like structure is formed to the left and righton the handle body. In addition to the marking, this structure may alsoprovide a certain haptic effect (similar to Braille), by application ofa greater amount of ink or by lasering the structure with a certainamount of material being removed.

The cross section in FIG. 24 illustrates the printing possibilities of atoothbrush handle body. The schematically shown printing 7 on the handlepart 4 with marking/printing on the front side. The applied print isprovided up to a maximum angle α around the longitudinal axis. That isto say that the printing, which is performed in one step (contiguously),assumes from end to end a maximum angle of α. The surface area islikewise curved and thus has an oval form; the printing runs over thecurved surface. The curvature may in principle be circular, round oroval (considered in cross section).

The curvature preferably has a radius R (with the center point thelongitudinal axis of the handle body) of 2 mm to 15 mm, more preferablyof 4 mm to 8 mm.

The angle α is a maximum of 180°; correspondingly, the upper surfacearea of the product can be printed substantially up to the separatingplane.

For example, a pad printhead, an inkjet printhead or a laser printheadmay be used as the marking/printing means 20. In any case it isimportant that the product or cleaning device 1 to be printed is heldwell in a mounting means 23 (cf. FIGS. 15 to 20) and thus assumes aclearly defined position. The product or cleaning device 1 to be printedis intended to be made level by the mounting means 23, in order toassume a position on average that is as horizontal as possible. Themounting means 23 may also be used to create a covering for certainparts of the product or cleaning device 1 to be printed that are not tobe printed.

The pad that is usually used for transferring the color (not shown) hasa curved form, adapted to the surface to be printed. This pad isdeformed appropriately for the applied print to have the correctappearance. In order for this to be possible, the color of the printimage on the pad is provided in a distorted form, so that afterapplication to the curved surface the print image has the correctappearance. The same applies to inkjet printing or laser printing.

With the methods mentioned, handle bodies with strong curvatures can beprinted/marked transversely to the longitudinal direction. It is howeveralso possible in addition or as an alternative to print/mark curvaturesin the longitudinal direction of the handle body. The methods even allowhandle surfaces not only with convex zones but also concave zones to bemarked. The radii of curvature R or transitions of the curved convex orconcave zones of the surfaces to be printed should not be below radii of2 mm, preferably 4 mm.

On the handle body, consequently, curved surfaces of 400-2000 mm² can beprinted/marked.

The configurational variants shown and described in the presentapplication are merely given by way of example. In particular, theindividual refinements and elements of these configurational variantsmay be combined with other configurational variants without departingfrom the scope of this invention.

LIST OF REFERENCE SIGNS

-   1 Cleaning device (for example brushes, toothbrushes, flossers or    flossing implements, tongue cleaners etc.)-   2 Head part-   2 a Upper side of head part-   2 b Rear side of head part-   2 c Edge of rear side of head part-   3 Neck part-   4 Handle part-   4 a Mounting projections-   5 a Splaying-out tufts of bristles-   5 b Lamella-like rubber elements-   5 c Conventional tufts of bristles-   5 d Puck tuft (front)-   5 e Puck tuft (rear)-   5 f Twisted-in bristles (spiral)-   5 g Dental floss-   5 h Injection-molded cleaning elements-   6 Bristle area-   7 Marking/color medium (marking/printing)-   8 a Upper edge of bristle area or individual element-   8 b Front edge of bristle area or individual element-   8 c Longitudinal/outer edge of bristle area or individual element-   9 Upper side of bristle area or individual element-   10 Front side of bristle area or individual element-   11 Longitudinal side/outer side of bristle area or individual    element-   12 Tongue cleaner (on rear side of toothbrush)-   12 a Nubs-   12 b Lamellae-   13 (Double) wire-   14 Rear side of bristle area or individual element-   15 Layer of soft component-   16 Upper edge (round)-   20 Marking/printing means (for example printhead or laser)-   21 Marking/printing area-   22 Transporting device-   23 Mounting means-   M Center point-   P1 Arrow (direction of motion of the product)-   P1′ Arrow (direction of motion of the marking/printing means)-   P2′ Arrow (direction of motion of the marking/printing means)-   P3′ Arrow (direction of motion of the marking/printing means)-   P4 Arrow (direction of motion of the product)-   L Longitudinal axis-   R Radius (curvature)-   X Axis-   Y Axis-   Z Axis

1. A cleaning device, in particular a toothbrush, with a handle bodyconsisting of a handle part, a head part and a neck part connecting thehandle part to the head part, wherein the head part has applied to itone or more applicator and/or cleaning elements, which form a bristlearea which has at least one outer side and/or an upper side, wherein atleast one of the applicator and/or cleaning elements on the at least oneouter side and/or an upper side of the bristle area and/or the handlebody is/are marked/printed with a marking/color medium.
 2. The cleaningdevice as claimed in claim 1, wherein the applicator and/or cleaningelements marked/printed with the marking/color medium are formed from athermoplastic elastomer, in particular a thermoplastic polyurethaneelastomer, a thermoplastic polyamide elastomer, a thermoplasticpolyolefin elastomer, or a thermoplastic polyester elastomer, apolyamide, a polybutylene terephthalate and/or a silicone.
 3. Thecleaning device as claimed in claim 1, wherein the marked/printedapplicator and/or cleaning elements and/or the handle body is/aremarked/printed with an indicator or an indicator color.
 4. The cleaningdevice as claimed in claim 1, wherein the marking/color medium isapplied to the applicator and/or cleaning elements and/or the handlebody with a layer thickness of 0.001 mm to 0.5 mm, preferably of 0.001mm to 0.2 mm.
 5. The cleaning device as claimed in claim 1, wherein thepacking density of the applicator and/or cleaning elements, inparticular the bristles, is from 12 per mm² to 25 per mm², preferablyfrom 16 per mm² to 20 per mm².
 6. The cleaning device as claimed inclaim 1, wherein marking/printing resolution is from 20 dpi to 3000 dpi,preferably from 150 dpi to 1500 dpi.
 7. The cleaning device as claimedin claim 1, wherein, in the case of a bristle area with at least oneouter side and an upper side, at least one applicator and/or cleaningelement on the outer side of the bristle area and at least one cleaningand applicator element on the upper side of the bristle area aremarked/printed.
 8. The cleaning device as claimed in claim 1, whereinindividual applicator and/or cleaning elements or larger surface areasover a number of applicator and/or cleaning elements are marked/printedaround a corner, i.e. over the upper edge, so that a continuousmarking/printing continuing from the outer side to the upper side of atleast individual applicator and/or cleaning elements is obtained.
 9. Thecleaning device as claimed in claim 1, wherein, in the case of a bristlearea with at least a front side, a longitudinal side and an upper side,at least one applicator and/or cleaning element on the front side of thebristle area, at least one applicator and/or cleaning element on thelongitudinal side of the bristle area and at least one cleaning and/orapplicator element on the upper side of the bristle area aremarked/printed.
 10. The cleaning device as claimed in claim 1, whereinthe marking/printing within an applicator and/or cleaning element isadapted such that the marking/printing at least partially follows thecontour of the applicator and/or cleaning elements, preferably in orderto leave behind a different marking/printing, depending on the viewingangle.
 11. The cleaning device as claimed in claim 1, wherein the handlebody has a curvature which, seen in cross section, is provided over anangle α of up to 180° with a contiguous printing.
 12. The cleaningdevice as claimed in claim 1, wherein the handle body has a curvaturewith a radius (R) of 2 mm to 15 mm, preferably of 4 mm to 8 mm.
 13. Thecleaning device as claimed in claim 1, wherein flock fiber elements areapplied on the handle body, preferably also in the region of theapplicator and/or cleaning elements.
 14. The cleaning device as claimedin claim 13, wherein the flock fiber elements comprise conventional,extruded bristles with a length of 0.1 to 5 mm, preferably about 0.2 to2 mm.
 15. A method for marking/printing a cleaning device, in particulara toothbrush, with a handle body consisting of a handle part, a headpart and a neck part connecting the handle part to the head part,wherein the head part has applied to it one or more applicator and/orcleaning elements, which form a bristle area which has at least oneouter side and/or an upper side, with the steps of: (a) feeding thecleaning device with the handle body and also the applicator and/orcleaning elements to a marking/printing means, preferably a printhead,by means of a transporting device; (b) marking/printing at least one ofthe applicator and/or cleaning elements on the at least one outer sideand/or an upper side of the bristle area and/or the handle body with amarking/color medium.
 16. The method as claimed in claim 15, wherein themarking/printing means is an inkjet, laser or pad printhead.
 17. Themethod as claimed in claim 15, wherein the marking/printing means isarranged movably and/or rotationally movably along at least one axis,preferably two axes, still more preferably three axes, with respect tothe cleaning device.
 18. The method as claimed in claim 15, wherein thetransporting device has mounting means, with which the cleaning devicecan be swiveled and/or rotated with respect to the marking/printingmeans.
 19. The method as claimed in claim 15, wherein, in the case of abristle area with at least one outer side and an upper side, at leastone applicator and/or cleaning element on the outer side of the bristlearea and at least one cleaning and/or applicator element on the upperside of the bristle area are marked/printed.
 20. The method as claimedin claim 15, wherein, in the case of a bristle area with at least onefront side, a longitudinal side and an upper side, at least oneapplicator and/or cleaning element on the front side of the bristlearea, at least one applicator and/or cleaning element on thelongitudinal side of the bristle area and at least one cleaning and/orapplicator element on the upper side of the bristle area aremarked/printed.
 21. The method as claimed in claim 15, wherein themarking/printing means has 5 to 500 nozzles, preferably 10 to 100nozzles.
 22. The method as claimed in claim 15, wherein themarking/printing speed is from 2 m/min to 100 m/min, preferably from 5m/min to 60 m/min.
 23. The method as claimed in claim 15, wherein aphysical and/or chemical processing of the applicator and/or cleaningelements, in particular in the case of extruded bristles, is carried outbefore the marking/printing.
 24. The method as claimed in claim 15,wherein a physical and/or chemical processing of the applicator and/orcleaning elements, in particular in the case of extruded bristles, iscarried out after the marking/printing, but wherein the marked/printedpart is not processed, or only in such a way that it is not harmed. 25.The method as claimed in claim 15, wherein a handle body with a curvedsurface of from 400-2000 mm², preferably 500-1800 mm², particularlypreferably 600-1400 mm², can be printed.
 26. The method as claimed inclaim 16, wherein, for printing curved surfaces, the pad printhead has acurved form, adapted to the surface to be printed.
 27. The method asclaimed in claim 26, wherein the pad printhead is deformed duringprinting in such a way that the applied print on the handle body has thecorrect appearance.
 28. The method as claimed in claim 16, wherein flockfiber elements can also be printed with the marking/printing means. 29.An arrangement for marking/printing a bristle area and/or a handle bodyof a cleaning device having a marking/printing means, preferably aninkjet, laser or pad printhead, with a marking/printing area withinwhich a marking/printing of the bristle area with a color medium isperformed and also with a mounting device by means of which the cleaningdevice is held and positioned with respect to the marking/printing meansand which is preferably arranged on a transporting device.
 30. Thearrangement as claimed in claim 29, wherein the marking/printing meansis arranged movably and/or rotationally movably along at least one axis,preferably two axes, still more preferably three axes, with respect tothe cleaning device.
 31. The arrangement as claimed in claim 29,wherein, by means of the mounting means, the cleaning device can beswiveled and/or rotated with respect to the marking/printing means.